Semaa Khaleel | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Applied Scientist

Dr. Semaa Khaleel | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Department of Petroleum and Refining Engineering, College of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, University of Mosul, Iraq

Dr. Semaa I. Khaleel is a dedicated academic and researcher currently serving as a Lecturer at the Department of Petroleum and Refining Engineering, College of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, University of Mosul, Iraq. With a strong foundation in chemistry, she has continuously advanced in academia, obtaining her B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. from Mosul University. Her scholarly journey is marked by a passion for applied research, focusing on innovative materials and environmental sustainability. Dr. Khaleel has taught a wide range of undergraduate courses and mentored students across diverse subjects related to petroleum engineering. Her expertise lies in developing and modifying materials such as activated carbon and biofuels, contributing to clean energy and waste utilization solutions. She has led and completed several impactful research projects, and her contributions are particularly noteworthy in the areas of adsorption technologies and asphalt modification. Committed to both research and teaching excellence, she maintains active profiles on global research platforms including Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and ORCID. As an emerging voice in her field, Dr. Khaleel exemplifies the qualities of a modern scientist—bridging theory and practice with innovation and integrity. Her academic rigor, combined with her practical approach to problem-solving, makes her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Semaa I. Khaleel’s academic journey is deeply rooted in the prestigious Mosul University, where she earned all her degrees in Chemistry, reflecting her unwavering dedication to scientific inquiry and academic excellence. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in 2002, laying the groundwork for a career centered on chemical and environmental science. Driven by an early interest in applied chemistry, she pursued her Master of Science in 2009, further honing her analytical skills and expanding her theoretical foundation. Her graduate research emphasized the role of chemical processes in industrial and environmental applications, a theme that continued throughout her doctoral studies. In 2018, Dr. Khaleel completed her Ph.D. in Chemistry, focusing on advanced materials and adsorption technologies, which later became the core of her academic and research interests. Her doctoral work has significantly influenced her contributions to petroleum refining, asphalt rheology, and sustainable fuel technologies. The continuum of her education within a single institution also illustrates her long-term commitment to the development of scientific research in Iraq. This strong educational background, paired with her practical and teaching experience, has uniquely positioned her to contribute meaningfully to academia, industrial innovation, and student mentorship at the University of Mosul.

Professional Experience

Since 2018, Dr. Semaa I. Khaleel has served as a Lecturer at the Department of Petroleum and Refining Engineering, College of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, University of Mosul. Her professional responsibilities include teaching various undergraduate-level subjects that intersect chemistry and petroleum engineering. Her courses are designed to integrate theoretical concepts with real-world industrial applications, reflecting her belief in experiential learning. Beyond her teaching duties, she plays a critical role in guiding student projects, supervising laboratory work, and supporting departmental academic development. Dr. Khaleel has also actively participated in curriculum development to align educational programs with emerging industry trends in sustainable fuels and advanced materials. Parallel to her teaching, she has successfully completed five research projects and is currently engaged in three ongoing investigations related to activated carbon production, biofuel synthesis, and rheological modification of asphalt. Her collaborations with other departments and institutions showcase her commitment to multidisciplinary research. She has maintained professional affiliations with engineering and chemistry societies, and her contributions have extended to consultation on environmentally conscious refining processes. With a career that balances research innovation and pedagogical effectiveness, Dr. Khaleel continues to demonstrate a strong impact in academia and the applied sciences sector in Iraq and beyond.

Research Interest

Dr. Semaa I. Khaleel’s research interests are deeply rooted in applied chemistry with a focus on sustainability and industrial relevance. Her primary research themes include the development and utilization of activated carbon, biofuels, rheological modification of asphalt, polymer chemistry, and diesel fuel analysis. She is particularly known for her innovative approaches in using agricultural and industrial waste materials to synthesize activated carbon for environmental applications such as dye adsorption and water purification. Her work in asphalt modification investigates the use of chemical treatments and polymers to enhance the performance and durability of paving materials under extreme conditions. Another area of interest is the thermodynamic and kinetic studies of adsorption processes, where she has contributed new insights into how low-cost carbon materials interact with dyes and pollutants. Dr. Khaleel also explores biofuel production pathways that are efficient and sustainable, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and fossil fuel dependency. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to connect materials science, environmental engineering, and petroleum technology. Through these focal areas, she aims to contribute practical solutions to pressing environmental and energy challenges while advancing fundamental understanding of material behavior and chemical interactions.

Research Skills

Dr. Semaa I. Khaleel possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that enable her to navigate and contribute meaningfully across multiple areas of applied and analytical chemistry. She is adept in experimental design, data analysis, and statistical modeling, particularly within the context of adsorption processes and thermodynamic studies. Her lab expertise includes activated carbon synthesis, polymer blending, and biofuel refinement, using methods like chemical activation, distillation, and surface modification techniques. Dr. Khaleel is highly proficient in UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR spectroscopy, and thermal analysis, which she applies to characterize materials and investigate their physicochemical properties. She also brings competence in kinetic modeling, having conducted studies that explore adsorption mechanisms and isotherm behavior. Additionally, she is skilled in academic writing, project reporting, and preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals. With five completed research projects and three currently underway, she has demonstrated her capacity for long-term research planning, proposal writing, and collaboration. Her familiarity with platforms such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and ORCID reflects her active engagement with the global research community. Collectively, her practical skills, analytical mindset, and commitment to scientific rigor position her as a strong candidate for recognition through research awards.

Awards and Honors

While formal awards may not yet fully reflect Dr. Semaa I. Khaleel’s academic merit, her accomplishments and growing recognition in the field signal her increasing impact as a researcher. Being appointed as a Lecturer at the University of Mosul, a prestigious public university in Iraq, stands as a significant professional achievement and acknowledgment of her academic excellence. Her continuous teaching role since 2018 demonstrates trust in her educational capability and technical knowledge. Her research contributions, such as the production of activated carbon from waste materials and her kinetic studies on adsorption, have positioned her as a promising researcher in the sustainable materials domain. She has successfully led multiple projects, collaborated across disciplines, and published peer-reviewed work. In an academic environment where resources may be limited, her ability to conduct meaningful research with practical implications is a testimony to her ingenuity and dedication. Through her participation in academic conferences, student mentorship, and growing citation record, Dr. Khaleel is steadily building her reputation. She is now being considered for the Best Researcher Award, which would serve as a fitting recognition of her hard work, scientific contributions, and her unwavering commitment to academic and research excellence in Iraq and beyond.

Conclusion

Dr. Semaa I. Khaleel exemplifies the qualities of a dynamic and impactful researcher whose work bridges theoretical innovation with practical utility. From her academic training in chemistry at Mosul University to her current role as a lecturer and researcher, she has continually demonstrated intellectual rigor, commitment to education, and a passion for sustainability. Her research into activated carbon production, asphalt modification, and alternative fuels addresses some of the most pressing global challenges—resource recovery, pollution mitigation, and energy efficiency. Her projects, often centered on converting waste into value-added products, showcase a resourceful and environmentally conscious mindset. Moreover, her dedication to teaching has influenced a new generation of petroleum engineers and chemists, especially in a region where scientific advancement is both challenging and essential. Her active involvement in research, publication, and professional collaboration illustrates her readiness for greater responsibility and recognition. Being nominated for the Best Researcher Award is a timely and well-deserved acknowledgment of her contributions to applied science. With continued support, Dr. Khaleel is poised to make even greater impacts, not only through academic achievements but also by fostering innovation that serves society and the environment.

Publications Top Notes

Title: A Thermodynamic and Kinetic Study for Adsorption of a Number of Dyes from their Aqueous Solutions on a New Kind of Activated Carbon Prepared by Pomegranate (Punica Granatum)
Authors: E.A.S. Al-Hyali, A.A.H. Al-Khazraji, S.I.K. Al-Taey
Year: 2016
Citations: 1

Title: A Statistical Study Comparing Experimental and Theoretical Yields of Activated Carbon Prepared from Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Peels via Chemical Treatment
Authors: S.I. Khaleel, A.A.H. Al-Khazraji, E.A.S. Al-Hyali
Year: 2024

Title: Preparation of New Types of Activated Carbon and Testing Their Efficiency by the Adsorption of Some Dyes, Thermodynamic and Kinetic Studies
Authors: K. Semaa, H. Ammar, A.L.H. Emad
Year: 2017

Title: Extraction of Amino Acids from Their Aqueous Solutions by Using Derivatives of Polyethylene
Authors: S.I.K., Asaad F. Khattab
Year: 2016

Title: Studying Thermodynamic and Kinetic as for the Adsorption of a Number of Dyes from their Aqueous Solutions on a New Kind of Activated Carbon Prepared by the Residues Vacuum Distillation of Air Oxidation for Beji Asphalt by Chemical Treatment
Authors: A.A.H. Al-Khazraji, E.A.S. Al-Hyali, S.I.K. Al-Taey
Year: 2016

Japheth Obiko | Engineering Achievements | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Applied Scientist

Dr. Japheth Obiko | Engineering Achievements | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology, South Africa

Dr. Japheth Oirere Obiko is a dynamic and innovative researcher and academic specializing in mechanical and materials engineering. With a robust academic background and diverse research interests, Dr. Obiko is making significant contributions to advanced manufacturing and materials science. He currently holds dual roles as a Lecturer at the Department of Mining, Materials and Petroleum Engineering at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Kenya, and as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa. His multidisciplinary research integrates cutting-edge methods in metal forming, welding metallurgy, and additive manufacturing, with a strong foundation in numerical simulation and machine learning. Dr. Obiko has authored 37 journal publications and 3 book chapters, contributing extensively to the scientific community. With editorial roles and collaborations with top-tier institutions like the University of the Witwatersrand, he demonstrates a commitment to both academic rigor and industrial applicability. His citation index reflects growing global recognition, and his mentorship of postgraduate students underscores his leadership in academic development. As a registered graduate engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya, Dr. Obiko bridges theoretical research with practical engineering application, making him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Japheth Oirere Obiko’s educational journey is marked by academic excellence and specialization in engineering sciences. He obtained his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering from the prestigious University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, South Africa in 2021. This rigorous doctoral program provided him with advanced competencies in material science, welding metallurgy, and computational modeling. Prior to this, he earned both his Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), Kenya in 2015 and 2012, respectively. These formative academic stages laid a strong technical foundation in thermal systems, mechanical design, and manufacturing processes. Dr. Obiko’s educational progression illustrates a steady and deliberate move toward specialization in the emerging frontiers of materials engineering. As a registered graduate engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya, he has translated this academic knowledge into recognized professional credentials. His pursuit of higher education not only reflects intellectual curiosity but also a determination to contribute meaningful innovations in applied engineering. Through continuous learning and scholarly inquiry, Dr. Obiko exemplifies the modern researcher—deeply informed, technically proficient, and driven by interdisciplinary engagement.

Professional Experience

Dr. Obiko has amassed a wealth of professional experience that combines academia, research, and industry consultancy. He is currently a Lecturer at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in Kenya, where he teaches and mentors students in mining, materials, and petroleum engineering. In addition to his teaching role, he serves as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa, engaging in advanced research in metal forming and additive manufacturing. Over the years, he has managed and participated in multiple research projects, with five significant studies either completed or ongoing. His experience includes one consultancy project that highlights his ability to translate theoretical research into practical industrial applications. Dr. Obiko’s professional footprint extends beyond teaching; it includes supervising postgraduate students, coordinating research collaborations with institutions like the University of the Witwatersrand, and contributing as a guest editor for a special issue on Smart Manufacturing in the journal Applied Sciences. His involvement in both academic and industrial environments enhances his capacity to bridge knowledge gaps and implement technological solutions. His contributions are further solidified by his authorship of numerous peer-reviewed papers and chapters, confirming his status as a respected academic and thought leader in engineering.

Research Interest

Dr. Japheth Oirere Obiko’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials engineering, computational modeling, and advanced manufacturing. He is deeply invested in understanding and enhancing processes like metal forming and welding metallurgy, both critical for industries ranging from automotive to aerospace. A key area of focus is Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), where he explores novel techniques to optimize material properties and reduce production defects. His work also extends into numerical simulation, particularly through the Finite Element Method (FEM), enabling the prediction and control of complex material behaviors under various processing conditions. Additionally, Dr. Obiko is venturing into the integration of machine learning—especially Artificial Neural Networks—to improve material design and process automation. This interdisciplinary approach allows for more accurate modeling, real-time monitoring, and data-driven decision-making. His published work reflects a strong commitment to research translation, with applications that benefit both academia and industry. His interests not only align with global priorities in smart manufacturing and sustainable development but also showcase a futuristic vision of engineering that is responsive to emerging technologies. Through collaboration and innovation, Dr. Obiko continues to expand the boundaries of knowledge in applied materials science.

Research Skills

Dr. Obiko is equipped with a diverse and sophisticated array of research skills that enable him to undertake complex engineering investigations and produce impactful results. He is proficient in metal forming analysis and experimental mechanics, essential for optimizing deformation processes and improving material performance. His expertise in welding metallurgy includes the study of microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of welded joints, with practical relevance to industrial fabrication. He is highly skilled in Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), a cutting-edge technology that he employs to explore new material structures and component efficiencies. Dr. Obiko’s computational skills are particularly advanced; he utilizes Finite Element Method (FEM) tools such as ANSYS and DEFORM for simulations involving thermal, mechanical, and structural analysis. Additionally, he is adept in data-driven modeling using machine learning tools, especially Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), which he incorporates to enhance predictive accuracy and optimization. These computational methods are complemented by his hands-on laboratory expertise in alloy design, microstructure characterization, and mechanical testing. His ability to blend experimental and numerical techniques provides a comprehensive framework for scientific inquiry. Dr. Obiko’s skill set is robust, interdisciplinary, and well-aligned with the demands of modern research in materials and manufacturing.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Japheth Obiko’s achievements in engineering research have earned him recognition within both academic and professional circles. His appointment as a Guest Editor for the Applied Sciences journal’s Special Issue on “Advanced Metal Forming and Smart Manufacturing Processes” is a testament to his expertise and leadership in the field. This role not only highlights his editorial acumen but also his recognition as a subject-matter expert globally. His doctoral and postdoctoral affiliations with leading institutions such as the University of the Witwatersrand and Tshwane University of Technology further reflect his academic merit. While he has not yet been formally awarded national or international medals, the depth of his contributions—spanning over 37 peer-reviewed journal publications and three scholarly book chapters—showcases a sustained and high-impact research trajectory. His citation index in Scopus and multiple collaborative efforts with global institutions provide further evidence of his growing influence. As a registered member of the Engineers Board of Kenya and an active contributor to industrial consultancy projects, Dr. Obiko has demonstrated both academic excellence and practical engagement. His dedication to research, innovation, and mentorship positions him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Japheth Oirere Obiko exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking researcher, educator, and professional engineer. His academic journey from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology to internationally recognized institutions such as the University of the Witwatersrand has laid a strong foundation for his career in advanced manufacturing and materials science. His prolific research output, spanning 37 journal publications and several collaborative projects, reflects both depth and breadth in subject matter expertise. Moreover, his roles as a lecturer, postdoctoral researcher, and guest editor demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship. Dr. Obiko’s integration of simulation techniques, welding technologies, and machine learning into engineering research addresses real-world challenges and promotes innovation. His contributions are timely and relevant, aligning with global goals for sustainable, smart manufacturing. Although still early in his professional trajectory, his influence is rapidly growing, as evidenced by his scholarly citations and editorial invitations. By maintaining strong industry ties and fostering future engineers, he continues to impact both theory and practice. Dr. Obiko stands out as a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award, representing the next generation of African scholars leading transformative change in science and technology.

Publications Top Notes

1. Title: Advancing the hydrogen production economy: A comprehensive review of technologies, sustainability, and future prospects
Authors: SO Jeje, T Marazani, JO Obiko, MB Shongwe
Year: 2024
Citations: 95

2. Title: Finite element simulation of X20CrMoV121 steel billet forging process using the Deform 3D software
Authors: JO Obiko, FM Mwema, MO Bodunrin
Year: 2019
Citations: 50

3. Title: An overview of conventional and non-conventional techniques for machining of titanium alloys
Authors: SR Oke, GS Ogunwande, M Onifade, E Aikulola, ED Adewale, …
Year: 2020
Citations: 46

4. Title: Forging optimisation process using numerical simulation and Taguchi method
Authors: JO Obiko, FM Mwema, H Shangwira
Year: 2020
Citations: 23

5. Title: Validation and optimization of cutting parameters for Ti-6Al-4V turning operation using DEFORM 3D simulations and Taguchi method
Authors: JO Obiko, FM Mwema, MO Bodunrin
Year: 2021
Citations: 22

6. Title: A multi-response optimization of the multi-directional forging process for aluminium 7075 alloy using grey-based Taguchi method
Authors: C Obara, FM Mwema, JN Keraita, H Shagwira, JO Obiko
Year: 2021
Citations: 19

7. Title: Friction correction of flow stress-strain curve in the upsetting process
Author: J Obiko
Year: 2021
Citations: 16

8. Title: Effect of punch force on the upsetting deformation process using three-dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: FM Mwema, JO Obiko, ET Akinlabi, SA Akinlabi, OS Fatoba
Year: 2019
Citations: 14

9. Title: On the uniaxial compression testing of metallic alloys at high strain rates: an assessment of DEFORM-3D simulation
Authors: M Bodunrin, J Obiko, D Klenam
Year: 2023
Citations: 13

10. Title: Strain rate-strain/stress relationship during isothermal forging: a deform-3D FEM
Authors: J Obiko, F Mwema, ET Akinlabi
Year: 2020
Citations: 13