Assist. Prof. Dr. TESFAYE HAILE HABTEMARIAM , Green Chemistry , Inorganic Chemist at Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia
Dr. Tesfaye Haile Habtemariam, is an Ethiopian inorganic chemist and Assistant Professor at Wolaita Sodo University. With over a decade of academic and research experience, he specializes in inorganic materials, nanotechnology, and environmental chemistry. He earned both his M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Chemistry from Addis Ababa University and undertook a research visit at the University of Nottingham, UK. Dr. Tesfaye has held leadership roles, including Head of the Chemistry Department at Wolaita Sodo University. An active member of prestigious chemical societies like the American Chemical Society and Royal Society of Chemistry, he contributes significantly to research in MOFs, photocatalysis, and nanomaterials. Dr. Tesfaye is well-regarded for his community-oriented research, particularly in water treatment and environmental remediation, and has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications. His commitment to scientific innovation and education makes him a valuable contributor to both national and international scientific communities.
Professional Profile :
Orcid
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Summary of Suitability for Award:
Dr. Tesfaye Haile Habtemariam is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award”. His consistent research output, international exposure, impactful studies in environmental and materials chemistry, and leadership roles reflect a well-rounded academic profile. His work in nanotechnology and MOFs addresses pressing global issues, reinforcing his candidacy for this prestigious recognition. He is an exemplary researcher contributing meaningfully to science, innovation, and academic mentorship, making him a strong nominee for the “Best Researcher Award”.His impactful research on environmentally focused nanomaterials, global academic recognition, consistent publication record, and leadership in Ethiopian higher education underscore his contributions to science, innovation, and sustainable development.He exemplifies the qualities of a top-tier researcher with international collaborations, practical solutions, and dedication to academic excellence, making him an outstanding nominee for this honor.
🎓Education:
Dr. Tesfaye received both his advanced degrees in Inorganic Chemistry from Addis Ababa University. He completed his M.Sc. (2008–2010) with research focused on inorganic synthesis, followed by a Ph.D. (2014–2019), where he explored novel metal-organic frameworks and porous materials for environmental applications. During his Ph.D., he was awarded an opportunity to conduct part of his research at the University of Nottingham, UK, under the supervision of Prof. Neil R. Champness, gaining international exposure and experience in cutting-edge material science. This academic journey laid the foundation for his career in materials chemistry, environmental catalysis, and nanotechnology. His educational path reflects strong theoretical and applied understanding in inorganic chemistry, further enriched by hands-on laboratory skills and cross-disciplinary collaboration. This robust background enables him to contribute significantly to both teaching and research in the field of chemistry at national and international levels.
🏢Work Experience:
Since October 29, 2010, Dr. Tesfaye Haile Habtemariam has served as an Assistant Professor of Inorganic Chemistry at Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia. Over the years, he has been actively involved in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate chemistry courses, mentoring students, and leading numerous research projects. From October 2019 to November 2021, he served as the Head of the Department of Chemistry, where he played a crucial role in strengthening teaching, research, and community engagement activities in line with national education policy. Dr. Tesfaye has established himself as a proactive academician with expertise in nanotechnology, MOFs, and adsorptive materials. His collaborative approach has led to productive research engagements and multiple publications. He also contributed to institutional development and curriculum improvements while promoting sustainable technologies for environmental management. His experience integrates research, administration, and teaching—making him a well-rounded academic leader and contributor to Ethiopia’s scientific development.
🏅Awards:
Dr. Tesfaye has received several honors recognizing his academic and research contributions. In 2019, he won a year’s subscription to ChemComm awarded at the PACN Congress by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). This reflected his active participation and engagement with international scientific forums. Earlier in 2015, he was awarded a UNESCO-IHE short course scholarship for “Nanotechnology for Water and Wastewater Treatment” held in Delft, The Netherlands, which enhanced his expertise in water purification technologies using nanomaterials. These awards not only highlight his scientific curiosity but also his commitment to global knowledge exchange and interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. Tesfaye is a Member of the Royal Society of Chemistry (MRSC), the American Chemical Society (ACS), and the Chemical Society of Ethiopia, affirming his engagement with the global scientific community. These accolades demonstrate both his potential and proven track record in sustainable science and innovation.
🔬Research Focus:
Dr. Tesfaye’s research focuses on the synthesis and application of inorganic and nanostructured materials for environmental and energy-related challenges. His core interests include the design and spectroscopic study of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for use in photocatalysis, water and wastewater treatment, and removal of toxic contaminants. He also investigates adsorptive materials, exploring their capacity to eliminate pollutants such as heavy metals and dyes from aqueous systems. Additionally, he works on nanotechnology applications for antibacterial activity, leveraging biosynthesized nanoparticles from plant extracts for sustainable health applications. A particular strength of his research lies in green synthesis methods, combining traditional knowledge with modern chemistry to produce eco-friendly materials. His interdisciplinary work links material science, environmental chemistry, and nanotechnology, aiming to develop low-cost, efficient, and scalable solutions for real-world environmental problems in Ethiopia and beyond.
Publication Top Notes:
1. Nutritional and Mineral Composition of Amaranthus caudatus Leaves in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia
2. Adsorptive Removal of Cr(VI) from Aqueous Solution Using Activated Carbon of Enset Root (Ensete ventricosum)
3. Biological Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Fruit Extract of Ruta Chalepensis as Photoelectrode for Dye Sensitized Solar Cell Application
4. Biosynthesis of CuO Nanoparticle Using Leaf Extracts of Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex Benth and Withania somnifera (L) Dunal for Antibacterial Activity
5. Pillared‐Layer Metal‐Organic Frameworks (MOFs) for Photodegradation of Methyl Orange in Wastewater
6. Polyaniline‐ZnO‐NiO Nanocomposite Based Non‐Enzymatic Electrochemical Sensor for Malathion Detection
7. Room Temperature Synthesis of Pillared-Layer Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs)
8. The Determination of Caffeine Level of Wolaita Zone, Ethiopia Coffee Using UV-Visible Spectrophotometer