M.A. KHAN
group
People
Principal Investigator
Dr Abdullah Khan
Associate Professor
Email: makhan@qau.edu.pk
Research Fellow: University of Cambridge, UK (2024 - 2026)
Research Fellow: NPU-NCP Joint International Research Center on Advanced Nanomaterials & Defects Engineering,
China (2019-2022)
DPhil (PhD): Inorganic Chemistry, University of Oxford, UK (2016)
MPhil: Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad (2008)
I am Abdullah Khan, originally from Bagh AJK, Pakistan. I did DPhil in Inorganic Chemistry from the University of Oxford UK, in 2016, with Prof. Edman Tsang (Late). After PhD, in June 2016, I joined US Pakistan Center for Advanced Studies in Energy NUST as Assistant Professor Energy System Engineering. In November 2017, I moved to Quaid-i-Azam University, where I am currently Associate Professor of Environment. Recently, I took a fellowship with Prof. Alexander C. Forse at the Universiyt of Cambridge to work on 'Electrochemical CO2 capture'. I lead a diverse and creative resarch group based at Renewable Energy Advancemnet Laboratory (REAL) department of Environmnet.
In spare time I like swimming, long walks, hiking and playing cricket.
Iram Gul
Ph.D. Candidate
I am Iram Gul from Bagh, AJK, Pakistan. I did my Masters in Physical Chemistry from COMSATS University Islamabad. Currently, I am a final year PhD student. My research is on the photoluminescence enhancement of semiconductor quantum dot nanocrystals and their use for toxic heavy metal sensing. My work combines nanomaterial synthesis, optical characterization, and synchrotron-based techniques to understand structure–property relationships. Apart from research, I am passionate about reading, poetry writing, gardening, and travel, which inspire creativity, mindfulness, and a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives.
Ahmad Uzair Khawar
Ph.D. Candidate
I am Ahmad Uzair from Islamabad, Pakistan. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Textile Engineering from Hamdard University, Karachi, and a Master’s degree in Environmental Sciences from COMSATS University, Abbottabad. My current research focuses on the photocatalytic degradation of textile effluent dyes using membrane technology and desalination processes. In my leisure time, I enjoy traveling to different cities and exploring various modes of transportation, including car and railway journeys. I also value social interaction and actively participate in gatherings, staying engaged across different platforms.
Muhammad Muzammil
Ph.D. Candidate
I am Muhammad Muzammil from Jhang, Punjab, Pakistan. I completed my Master’s in Environmental Science at the International Islamic University, Islamabad, Pakistan. My research focuses on carbon dioxide (CO₂) capture using both conventional approaches and emerging electrochemical capture methods using porous carbons and framework materials. I am particularly interested in developing efficient, sustainable, and scalable CO₂ capture solutions to support environmental sustainability and climate change mitigation. Beyond my research, I have a deep appreciation for nature. I enjoy nature's silence. I also like adventurous activities, enjoy exploring new places, and gardening, with a particular interest in fruit-bearing plants. I am also a poetry and music enthusiast.
Atarad Hussain
Ph.D. Candidate (Co-Supervision)
I am Atarad Hussain from Kotli, AJK, Pakistan. I am currently pursuing PhD in Chemistry and Materials Science jointly at University of Wah and QAU. My research primarily focuses on the understanding and photocatalytic treatment of environmental pollutants in water. I completed my Master’s degree from the University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, and MPhil from Mohi-ud-Din Islamic University AJK. I am actively involved in teaching chemistry, conducting laboratory-based analytical work with students, and delivering public talks on environmental issues. I am passionate about sharing scientific knowledge and inspiring students toward environmental awareness and innovation.
I enjoy long drives and music. I am also keen on continuously improving my teaching methodologies and expanding my skills in both teaching and personal development.
Monica Munawar
Ph.D. Candidate
I am Monica Manawar from Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan. I completed my M.Phil. in Organic Chemistry from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad. My current research focuses on the electrochemical detection of emerging pollutants using porous carbon materials for environmental monitoring. I am particularly interested in developing ultra sensitive and scalable sensing platforms for real world applications. Beyond research, I enjoy writing poetry, listening to music, and exploring creative pursuits. As a passionate music enthusiast, I also plan to learn the guitar in the near future.
Maryam Rizwan
Ph.D. Student
I am Maryam Akram from Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan. I completed my MPhil in Environmental Science from Government College Women University Sialkot (GCWUS). Currently, my research is on 3D Covalent Organic Framework-based capacitive deionization for desalination and sustainable water treatment. I am particularly interested in innovative environmental technologies for water purification and driven by the goal of addressing global water scarcity challenges. Beyond academics, I enjoy reading books and continuous learning, which helps me stay curious and motivated. I also enjoy listening to music in my free time.
Zubaria Khanam
MPhil Student
I am Zubaria Khanam from Mandi Bahauddin, Punjab, Pakistan. I am an Environmental Sciences graduate from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad. I joined the group as my final year project and later for my MPhil. My research focuses on carbon footprint analysis and the application of quantitative approaches to evaluate sustainable development pathways. I employ machine learning and AI approches to understand the environmental impacts of everyday household activities and to develop data-driven strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Outside of Lab, I enjoy knitting, playing video games, cycling, and hiking. Currently, I am learning Chinese and practicing skating. In the future, I also plan to learn chess.
Khadija Tul Ain
MPhil Student
I am Khadija Tul Ain, from Multan, Punjab. I completed my Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering and Technology from Government College University, Faisalabad. My research is on the treatment of agricultural wastewater, particularly nitrates. I am keen to explore efficient and innovative approaches for addressing water contamination and contributing toward cleaner and safer environmental systems. My academic journey is driven by curiosity, persistence, and a strong desire to contribute to research that bridges science with environmental sustainability. Beyond academics, I am passionate about art and reading, as both allow me to explore creativity and gain new perspectives.
Mazhar Uddin
MPhil Student
I am Mazhar Uddin from Chitral,GB, Pakistan. I am currently pursuing my MPhil in Environmental Science at QAU, Islamabad. My research focuses on the electrochemical reduction of nitrates using CuMoFe-LDH. I am particularly interested in developing an efficient and eco-friendly catalyst for nitrate reduction in contaminated water and for green ammonia synthesis as part of environmental remediation.
Academically, I completed my matriculation and intermediate studies at Aga Khan Higher Secondary School, Chitral. And I have done my BS in environmental science from IIUI Islamabad.
Beyond research, I enjoy playing football, tracking and hiking, listening to music and cycling.
Saad Hamed
MPhil Student
I am Saad Hamed from Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Gujrat. My current research focuses on the removal of water pollutants using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). In my free time, I actively engage in debating, Model United Nations (MUNs), and hackathons. I also have a keen interest in environmental law, regularly participate in conferences, and enjoy listening to music.
Palwasha Ahmed
MPhil Student
I am Palwasha Ahmed from Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan. I have completed my BS degree in Zoology from Quaid-i-Azam university Islamabad. My current research focuses on the adsorption of emerging pollutants using activated carbon materials . I am interested in exploring efficient and sustainable approaches for pollutant removal and contributing to environmental protection through scientific research. In my spare time, I enjoy listening music and reading books, which allows me to expand my knowledge, explore new ideas, and maintain a balance between academic and personal interests.
Alumni
Tehmina Jabeen (MPhil '25):
Aqsa Khaliq (MPhil '25):
Isra Akhtar (MPhil '25):
Shakeel Badshah (MPhil '25):
Kashaf Zubair (MPhil '25):
Syed Mazahir Hussain (MPhil '24):
Saba Gul (MPhil '23):
Nimra Cheema (MPhil '23):
Fariah Salam (MPhil '23):
Aiza Zafar (MPhil '23):
Hajra Batool (MPhil '23):
Tahreem Zafar (MPhil '22):
Asad Ali (MPhil '22):
Subul Huda (MPhil '22):
Samra Gillani (MPhil '22):
Laiba Gul (MPhil '22):
Muhammad Imran Rameel (joint student from NUST MS 22)
Jalal Bayar (MPhil 22):
Ahad Hussain Javed (joint student from NUST MS 21):
Uswa Zahoor (MPhil '21):
Mehar Wali (MPhil '21):
Sammia Khurshid (MPhil '21):
Sammra Galani (MPhil '21):
Muhammad Zulqarnain Arif(joint student from NUST MS 21)
Aqsa Rana (MPhil '21):
Ifzan Mumraiz (MPhil '20):
Farwa Sajjad (MPhil '20):
Badee Uz Zaman (MPhil '19):
Bilal Ahmad (MPhil '19):
Rabia Shahnawaz (MPhil '19):
Kiran Ghafoor (MPhil '19):
Undergraduates
Abdullah Khalid
Jamshed Khan
Abdul Qahir
Ameer Hamza
Muhammad Furqan
Sadaf Manha
Akhtar Ali
Momina Huma
Muhammad Ali
Sufiyan
Zubaria Khanum
Hassan Rizwan
Aiza Zafar
Fariah Salam
Visitors
Arif Ullah (IIUI 26)
Saira Kausar (Comsats Islamabad 24)
Maria Yousaf (Comsats Islamabad 24)
Sammia Kurshid (UAAR 24)
Sidra Mumtaz (WUBagh AJK 23)
Maria Javaid (WUBagh AJK 21)
Sandhia Preet Malik (SALU Sindh 21)
Mustansir Qazi (UAJK AJK 18)
Syed Zohab (UAJK AJK 18)