Dr. Dhabia Al-Mohannadi Wins "Innovators Under 35" Award

Doha, Qatar - Dr. Dhabia Al-Mohannadi, Assistant Professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) and Texas A&M University at Qatar, has been recognized with the "Innovators Under 35 MENA" Award for 2024 by MIT Technology Review Arabia. This award honors young innovators whose work significantly advances technology and society across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. 

About the "Innovators Under 35 MENA" Award

Established in 2018, the Innovators Under 35 MENA Award is the regional iteration of MIT Technology Review's global recognition program, which began in 1999. The award aims to spotlight young visionaries whose innovations have the potential to address pressing challenges and enhance the quality of life. Winners are selected by a panel of 19 independent judges, including technology experts, entrepreneurs, and academics from leading institutions worldwide. 

Dr. Al-Mohannadi's Pioneering Work: The HyPEC Project

Dr. Al-Mohannadi's award is attributed to her groundbreaking work on the HyPEC (Hybrid Photo-electro Chemical Production) project. This initiative focuses on producing green hydrogen from wastewater through a process that combines photocatalysis and electrochemical reactions. The project addresses two critical issues: wastewater management and sustainable energy production. 

Project Overview

The HyPEC project is a collaborative effort involving:

• Qatar Shell Research and Technology Centre (QSRTC): Leading the research and development phase.
• Texas A&M University at Qatar: Providing academic expertise and support.
• National Chemical Laboratories in India: Contributing additional research capabilities.
• Qatar National Research Fund: Offering financial backing for the project.

The project has successfully transitioned from initial laboratory testing to a prototype chemical reactor installed at the Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP). This pilot program has demonstrated the feasibility of producing green hydrogen from wastewater using sunlight, marking a significant advancement in sustainable energy technologies. 

Impact and Significance

The successful production of green hydrogen from wastewater aligns with Qatar's Vision 2030, which emphasizes environmental responsibility and sustainable development. Dr. Konstantinos Kakosimos, Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Professor at Texas A&M at Qatar, highlighted the project's success as a testament to effective industry-academic collaboration, emphasising the importance of innovation and environmental stewardship. 

Dr. Dhabia Al-Mohannadi's recognition with the "Innovators Under 35 MENA" Award underscores her significant contributions to sustainable energy and environmental stewardship. Her work on the HyPEC project exemplifies the potential of innovative research in addressing global challenges and advancing sustainable development goals.