Muhammad Waseem | Econometrics | Young Scientist Award

Mr Muhammad Waseem | Econometrics | Young Scientist Award

Research Assistant , COMSATS University Islamabad , Pakistan

An enthusiastic 🌱 economics researcher with an M.Phil. in Economics, this individual is passionate about sustainable development, macroeconomic policy, and trade πŸ“ˆ. With hands-on experience in advanced econometric techniques such as GMM, Panel ARDL, and Threshold Models 🧠, they skillfully apply tools like Stata and EViews πŸ’». Their work focuses on institutional quality, environmental economics 🌍, and policy-making grounded in evidence. Currently pursuing an M.S. in Economics at COMSATS University Islamabad πŸŽ“, they are actively engaged in research training and mentorship, striving to contribute to impactful economic analysis and policy innovation βœοΈπŸ“Š.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education & ExperienceΒ 

πŸŽ“ Completed BS Economics from Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan (2019–2023) and currently pursuing an MS in Economics at COMSATS University Islamabad (2023–ongoing). Gained hands-on experience through internships and research assistance roles at PIDE πŸ“š, COMSATS πŸ›οΈ, and Habib Bank Limited 🏦. Their roles involved data cleaning, econometric estimation, literature reviews, thesis guidance πŸ“‘, and policy analysis. With a strong grip on statistical software such as Stata and EViews πŸ’», they bring both academic rigor and practical exposure to every research project they contribute to.

Professional Development

πŸ“Š As a research assistant under the Ba-Ikhtiyar Nau Jawan Internship Program at COMSATS, this scholar contributed to academic mentoring, econometric analysis, and class presentations. At PIDE, they developed practical expertise in data interpretation, report writing, and policy implications 🧾. Their internship at Habib Bank Limited added financial sector exposure 🏦. These experiences enriched their analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and communication πŸ“’. By continuously participating in workshops and collaborative research environments, they are committed to evolving as a well-rounded economist and policy contributor πŸ€πŸ“ˆ.

Research FocusΒ 

Their research revolves around panel data analysis πŸ“Š, with a focus on international trade, sustainability, and institutional quality 🌍. They explore the dynamic interactions between macroeconomic policy, development economics, and environmental sustainability ♻️. Methodologically, they specialize in GLS, GMM, fixed/random effects, panel cointegration, and threshold models πŸ“‰. Their work aims to inform evidence-based policymaking by integrating economic theory with statistical rigor 🧠. Using tools like Stata and EViews πŸ’», they conduct in-depth analyses that highlight both global and local dimensions of development, trade flows, and governance effectiveness πŸ”¬.

Awards & HonorsΒ 

πŸ† While specific awards were not listed, their consistent academic performance and selection for competitive roles such as research assistantships at PIDE and COMSATS signal recognition of their talent πŸ“š. Being chosen for the Ba-Ikhtiyar Nau Jawan Internship Program reflects trust in their research capability and leadership in economic inquiry 🌟. Their role in mentoring undergraduate students in econometrics and thesis development demonstrates academic excellence πŸ‘©β€πŸ«. Further accolades are anticipated as they continue to contribute to impactful research and policy discussions both nationally and globally πŸŒπŸ“ˆ.

Publication Top Notes

1. High Removal Efficiency of Arsenite from Aqueous Solution by Cobalt Ferrite Functionalized Sawdust Driven Activated Carbon

Citation:
Naz, H., Khalid, Z., Arif, S., Ahmed, M. N., & Waseem, M. F. (2025). High removal efficiency of arsenite from aqueous solution by cobalt ferrite functionalized sawdust driven activated carbon. Inorganic Chemistry Communications.

Summary:
This study presents a novel approach to arsenite removal from water using activated carbon derived from sawdust, functionalized with cobalt ferrite nanoparticles. The composite material demonstrated high adsorption capacity and efficiency, offering a sustainable solution for arsenic-contaminated water treatment.

2. Highly Ordered and Uniform Growth of Magnetite Nanoparticles on the Surface of Amberlyst-15: Lead Ions Removal Study

Citation:
Gillani, Z., Zain-Ul-Abdin, Khalid, Z., Waseem, M. F., & Haq, S. U. (2024). Highly ordered and uniform growth of magnetite nanoparticles on the surface of Amberlyst-15: Lead ions removal study. Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10904-024-03453-1

Summary:
The research focuses on synthesizing magnetite nanoparticles uniformly grown on Amberlyst-15 resin for efficient lead ion removal from aqueous solutions. The composite material exhibited enhanced adsorption properties, making it a promising candidate for water purification applications.

3. Enhanced Role of Flower Shaped Curcumin Loaded ZnO/Agβ‚‚O Nanocomposites for Biological Applications

Citation:
Mukhtar, A., Aruge, S., Tariq, A., Haq, S. U., & Waseem, M. F. (2025). Enhanced role of flower shaped curcumin loaded ZnO/Agβ‚‚O nanocomposites for biological applications. BioNanoScience.

Summary:
This study explores the synthesis of flower-shaped ZnO/Agβ‚‚O nanocomposites loaded with curcumin, aiming to enhance their biological activities. The nanocomposites demonstrated significant antimicrobial and anticancer properties, suggesting their potential in biomedical applications.

4. Role of Co and Ni Ferrites in the Fabrication of Saccharum officinarum Bioadsorbents for Removing As(III)

Citation:
Sattar, A., Hussain, S. I., Bibi, F., Iqbal, N., & Waseem, M. F. (2025). Role of Co and Ni ferrites in the fabrication of Saccharum officinarum bioadsorbents for removing As(III). Separation and Purification Technology.

Summary:
The research investigates the incorporation of cobalt and nickel ferrites into Saccharum officinarum (sugarcane) based bioadsorbents for arsenic (As(III)) removal. The modified bioadsorbents showed improved adsorption capacities, offering an eco-friendly solution for arsenic remediation.

5. Green Hydrothermal Synthesis of Nickel and Zinc-Doped Nickel Ferrite Nanoparticles Using Dalbergiella welwitschii Extracts and Their Biological Studies

Citation:
Modupe, O. U., Olatunde, S. O., Waseem, M. F., Alsaiari, A. A. A., & Razzokov, J. (2024). Green hydrothermal synthesis of nickel and zinc-doped nickel ferrite nanoparticles using Dalbergiella welwitschii extracts and their biological studies. Heliyon, 11(1), e40759. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e40759

Summary:
This study reports the green synthesis of nickel and zinc-doped nickel ferrite nanoparticles using Dalbergiella welwitschii extracts. The nanoparticles exhibited significant anticancer and antidiabetic activities, highlighting their potential in biomedical applications.

6. Effective Remediation of Organic Pollutant Using Musa acuminata Peel Extract-Assisted Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

Citation:
Hedfi, A., Ben-Ali, M. J., Haq, S. U., Razzokov, J., Rehman, W., Waseem, M. F., Elmnasri, K., Hossain, M. K., Rehman, F. U., Karimbaev, E. K., & Shujaat, S. (2025). Effective remediation of organic pollutant using Musa acuminata peel extract-assisted iron oxide nanoparticles. Open Chemistry, 23(1), 132–145. https://doi.org/10.1515/chem-2025-0132

Summary:
The research presents a green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Musa acuminata (banana) peel extract. The nanoparticles demonstrated high efficiency in degrading organic dyes like methyl orange and rhodamine 6G, indicating their potential in wastewater treatment.

7. Utilizing T. wallichiana Leaf Extract for the Green Synthesis of Ferrite Nanoparticles: A Novel Approach to Lead Ion Removal

Citation:
Zafar, S., Amir, A., Sattar, A., Haque, I. U., & Waseem, M. F. (2025). Utilizing T. wallichiana leaf extract for the green synthesis of ferrite nanoparticles: A novel approach to lead ion removal. International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry.

Summary:
This study explores the green synthesis of ferrite nanoparticles using Taxus wallichiana leaf extract. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited effective lead ion adsorption from aqueous solutions, offering a sustainable method for heavy metal remediation.

8. Effect of Chemical and Thermal Activation on Texture, Morphology, and Composition of Onion Derived Carbon for Arsenic Adsorption

Citation:
Bibi, F., Hussain, R., Muhammad, H., Sattar, A., & Waseem, M. F. (2025). Effect of chemical and thermal activation on texture, morphology, and composition of onion derived carbon for arsenic adsorption. Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials.

Summary:
The research investigates the impact of chemical and thermal activation on onion-derived carbon’s properties for arsenic adsorption. The activated carbon showed enhanced surface area and porosity, leading to improved arsenic removal efficiency.

Conclusion

Muhammad Faisal Waseem demonstrates exceptional promise as a young researcher with impactful contributions to environmental sustainability, materials chemistry, and green technology. His work aligns closely with global goals like clean water access, responsible consumption, and climate action. His strong publication record, interdisciplinary skills, and commitment to sustainable science make him an outstanding nominee for the Young Scientist Award.

Ramin Ahadi | Operations Research | Best Researcher Award

Mr.Ramin Ahadi | Operations Research | Best Researcher Award

Doctoral Candidate at University of Cologne , Germany

A final-year Ph.D. candidate  at the University of Cologne and IE Business School, this researcher specializes in practical operations management and data science. Their work focuses on developing intelligent decision support systems using agent-based simulation , machine learning , and deep reinforcement learning. With expertise in smart mobility , energy systems , and sustainability, they bridge real-world problems with cutting-edge technology. Fluent in Python and other tools, they actively teach ML to graduate students and collaborate across academia and industry. Passionate about climate solutions 🌱, they aim to innovate for a greener and smarter world.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar Profile

Education & ExperienceΒ 

Holding a Ph.D. (2025 exp.) in Information Systems & Operations Management from the University of Cologne Β and currently a visiting scholar at IE Business School, Madrid , they also earned M.Sc. and B.Sc. degrees in Iran in Industrial and Mechanical Engineering respectively. With roles as researcher, lecturer , and tutor, their journey spans Europe and Asia. They’ve worked on EU-level energy and mobility research projects, simulations for EV fleets , and optimization algorithms. Teaching advanced analytics, leading grants, and collaborating with cities like Berlin and Paris , they blend deep technical skills with real-world impact.

Professional DevelopmentΒ 

This candidate continuously enhances their skill set through hands-on research, collaborative grant writing , and academic publishing . They lead cutting-edge projects using Python, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and simulation tools like Simpy and Pyomo . Their development includes teaching graduate-level machine learning courses , engaging in high-impact conferences like ICIS and AAMAS , and working with institutions like EWI. Industry collaborations include EV charging systems and sustainable logistics . Their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and smart city solutions Β positions them as a future leader in technology-driven operations management.

Research FocusΒ 

Their research centers on smart mobility , energy systems , and climate-conscious technologies 🌱. They design agent-based simulations and deep learning models  to manage shared autonomous fleets and EV charging. Key areas include dynamic fleet pricing, ride-hailing, digital twins of mobility networks , and predictive analytics for load scheduling. They bridge theory and application by leveraging real-world data from European cities . Using advanced optimization (GA, MPC, RL) and simulation, their work contributes to more sustainable urban ecosystems. Their core mission is to build data-driven, adaptive platforms for smarter, greener cities.

Awards & HonorsΒ 

Recognized for academic excellence and innovation , they ranked in the top 5% during their M.Sc. and top 10% in their B.Sc. programs . They earned a competitive research scholarship from the Institute of Energy Economics at the University of Cologne and co-led multiple successful EU research grant proposals . Their work has been presented at top-tier conferences like ICIS, ECIS, and WITS . They’ve also made an impact through teaching awards and invitations to speak on sustainability in mobility and energy systems . Their excellence extends to both academia and industry collaborations.

Publication Top Notes

1.Ahadi, R., Ketter, W., Collins, J., & Daina, N. (2023).
“Cooperative Learning for Smart Charging of Shared Autonomous Vehicle Fleets.”
Transportation Science, 57(3), 613–630.
Β Summary: This study presents a cooperative learning framework for optimizing electric vehicle (EV) charging across shared autonomous vehicle fleets. The model integrates real-time learning with coordination strategies to improve efficiency, grid stability, and user satisfaction.

2.Khalilzadeh, M., Neghabi, H., & Ahadi, R. (2023).
“An Application of Approximate Dynamic Programming in Multi-Period Multi-Product Advertising Budgeting.”
Journal of Industrial & Management Optimization, 19(1).
Summary: This paper develops an approximate dynamic programming approach to optimize advertising budgets over time for multiple products. It accounts for intertemporal trade-offs and uncertain returns, showcasing the method’s superiority to static approaches.

3.Yazdi, L., Ahadi, R., & Rezaee, B. (2019).
“Optimal Electric Vehicle Charging Station Placing with Integration of Renewable Energy.”
15th Iran International Industrial Engineering Conference (IIIEC), 47–51.
Summary: This conference paper investigates optimal site selection for EV charging stations using a multi-objective model that includes renewable energy generation and urban demand forecasting.

Conclusion

R. Ahadi exemplifies the qualities of a future-leading scholar with impactful, sustainable, and innovative contributions to operations management and intelligent systems. Their work directly contributes to the global challenge of building greener, smarter urban ecosystemsβ€”making them highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.