Dr . Samira Zafarnak , Shiraz University , Iran
A passionate and driven researcher 🎓, this individual holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering 🧪 from Shiraz University, with specialized expertise in catalysis, materials science, and sustainable energy 🌱. With academic and industrial experience in both Iran 🇮🇷 and the United Kingdom 🇬🇧, they bring a global, interdisciplinary approach 🌍 to research. Their current postdoctoral role at the Methanol Institute involves pioneering catalytic processes for methanol synthesis and CO₂ conversion 🔬. Renowned for their adaptability, collaboration 🤝, and critical problem-solving skills 💡, they contribute impactful knowledge in clean energy technologies and environmentally responsible engineering 🌐.
Professional Profile
SCOPUS
ORCID
Education & Experience
This accomplished researcher earned their Ph.D. 🎓 in Chemical Engineering from Shiraz University (2019–2023), with a dissertation on biogas reforming using nano clay catalysts 🔍. They also completed an M.Sc. (2014–2017) in the same field, focusing on ethane to ethylene conversion 🔬, and a B.Sc. (2009–2013) from Islamic Azad University 📘. Their academic journey is complemented by hands-on research in catalytic design and plasma systems during postdoctoral appointments in Iran 🇮🇷 and the UK 🇬🇧. Their current role involves catalyst fabrication, reactor design 🏗️, and gas chromatography-based evaluation at the Methanol Institute 🔧.
Professional Development
In their postdoctoral career, this researcher has embraced interdisciplinary growth 🌐 by engaging in high-level catalyst synthesis, plasma engineering ⚡, and reactor design. They contributed to RF-driven plasma jet development at the University of York 🇬🇧, analyzing hydroxyl density using spectrometry 🧫. At the Methanol Institute, they design scaled-up reactors and evaluate novel catalysts for CO₂ hydrogenation and RWGS reactions 🔁. They demonstrate a commitment to safety standards, laboratory excellence 🧪, and continuous learning 📈. These experiences have strengthened their adaptability, analytical thinking, and global collaboration capacity 🤝 in cutting-edge chemical engineering applications.
Research Focus
Their research focus centers on catalysis, sustainable energy conversion, and CO₂ utilization 🌱. By exploring noble/non-noble metal catalysts over nano-structured supports, they aim to make energy processes cleaner and more efficient ♻️. Their work bridges fields such as heterogeneous catalysis, nanomaterials 🧲, and plasma applications in chemical reactions ⚛️. Key areas include biogas reforming, methanol synthesis, and the Reverse Water Gas Shift (RWGS) reaction 🔄. Their research contributes to global efforts in green technology, reducing carbon emissions 🌍, and advancing the next generation of chemical reactors and materials innovation 🔧.
Awards & Honors
This dedicated scientist has earned recognition through competitive academic placements and impactful research appointments 🌟. Their Ph.D. research was praised for its innovation in sustainable energy systems ⚡. They were selected as a Postdoctoral Associate at the prestigious University of York 🇬🇧 and later as a Fellow at the Methanol Institute 🇮🇷, where they lead pivotal reactor design projects 🏗️. Their work has been highlighted in academic presentations and journal submissions 📚. A strong candidate for future research excellence awards 🥇, their contributions to catalytic engineering and green chemistry have marked them as a rising talent in chemical innovation 🧪.
Publication Top Notes
1. Dry reforming of methane for CO₂ conversion using sintering-resistant halloysite-supported Ni catalysts enhanced by alkaline-earth metal oxide promoters
Citation:
Zafarnak, S. (2025). Dry reforming of methane for CO₂ conversion using sintering-resistant halloysite-supported Ni catalysts enhanced by alkaline-earth metal oxide promoters. Fuel, Published: 2025-03-19.
Roles: Writing – review & editing, Data curation, Formal analysis, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Funding acquisition.
2. Design and fabrication of a microchannel plasma reactor for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment
Citation:
Peiravi, M., Zafarnak, S., & Taghvaei, H. (2025). Design and fabrication of a microchannel plasma reactor for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 107007. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2025.107007
3. Zeolite and molecular sieves for natural gas dehydration
Citation:
Zafarnak, S., & Rahimpour, M. R. (2024). Zeolite and molecular sieves for natural gas dehydration. In Advances in Natural Gas: Formation, Processing, and Applications. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-443-19221-0.00002-8
4. Membrane technology for syngas production
Citation:
Zafarnak, S., Meshksar, M., Rahimpour, H. R., & Rahimpour, M. R. (2023). Membrane technology for syngas production. In Advances in Synthesis Gas: Methods, Technologies and Applications. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91871-8.00007-6
5. Postdisaster issues and problems
Citation:
Zafarnak, S., Rahmatmand, B., & Rahimpour, M. R. (2023). Postdisaster issues and problems. In Crises in Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Industries. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-95163-0.00015-3
Conclusion
Dr. Zafarnak embodies the essence of a “best researcher” through her scientific rigor, innovation, and dedication to sustainable technologies. Her work not only contributes significantly to the scientific community but also addresses critical global challenges in energy, environment, and chemical engineering. The combination of her academic excellence, international impact, and practical contributions makes her a standout candidate for any Best Researcher Award.