Faces of MACBETH: Asem Al-Shaibani (FAU)
- 04/03/2024
The next portrait we would like to introduce you is from Asem Al-Shaibani of Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU). He told about himself and his research work whithin MACBETH. We hope, you enjoy getting to know him.
- Tell us something about yourself.
I am a PhD candidate working as part of the Hyfo case within MACBETH. I work on the catalysts development and the testing of the integrated membrane reactor system. My educational journey spans across continents, starting with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering in Malaysia and leading to a master’s program in Advanced Materials and Processes in Germany.
- How did you come to join the MACBETH team?
During my master’s thesis I learned about the MACBETH project, and I was intrigued by the concept of combining an interesting catalytic approach with an equally interesting reactor system. This fascination led me to choose MACBETH as the platform for my PhD candidacy, aligning my research goals with the project’s cutting-edge objectives.
- How does your typical day look like working on MACBETH?
The life of a PhD candidate is a dynamic one, and no two days are identical. However, most days entail a combination of hands-on lab work and analytical tasks at my desk. Lab activities range from catalyst synthesis and characterization to setting up reactors and conducting continuous experiments. Meanwhile, office work encompasses delving into literature, and management of the research data from processing raw data to documenting results for reporting.
- What was your biggest challenge so far?
Undoubtedly, the most significant challenge revolves around keeping up with the rapid developments in our field and the overall complexity of the MACBETH project. Operating at the interface of catalysis and membrane reactor technology presents unique challenges. Often, we navigate through the uncharted waters of modern chemical engineering concepts, making our work innovative in many aspects.
- What is your biggest success/achievement so far?
There are several milestones I could highlight, but one that stands out is identifying an alternative support material for our case and demonstrating its superior performance in preliminary investigations. Other than that, I was able to develop my own reactor control application using python for use in the lab which improved our efficiency in conducting experiments.
- How do you imagine your future work life?
While it is difficult to give definite answers given the rapid developments in my fields of interest, in the immediate future, I see myself continuing to contribute to research, whether in academia or industry. Witnessing ideas evolve from conceptual sketches to established scientific principles is inherently rewarding.
I find it humbling to stand on the shoulders of giants and play a role in advancing science. Getting to leave my own modest imprint on the field is immensely fulfilling.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asem-al/
