Dr. Awais Zaka is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Khalifa University, where he develops novel sulfur-based materials for energy and environmental applications. He obtained his PhD from Khalifa University in 2024, and his doctoral research centered on the synthesis and photovoltaic performance of iron pyrite (FeS鈧�) thin films. He holds a master’s degree in chemical engineering from the American University of Sharjah for work on graphene oxide derivatives for wastewater treatment. Currently, Awais leads a project on sulfur valorization to create artificial soil for arid environments, combining elemental sulfur, industrial by-products, and biopolymers to enhance soil fertility and sustainability. He brings expertise in material synthesis and characterization to bridge fundamental research with practical, real-world solutions.