Summary
Work History
Education
Skills
Publications
Additional Information
Timeline
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Abdul Munam

Abdul Munam

Professor Chemistry
Thorold,Ontario,

Summary

Passionate, organized, self-motivated, result-oriented, creative thinker, dependable Associate Professor with +12 years of experience administering education, research , and classroom procedures both autonomously and in collaboration with department faculty and leaders. Exceptional, gifted lecturing skills and expertise in General, Organic, Petroleum, Polymer, and other cross-disciplinary chemistry courses. Building foundations for next generation of academics and workforce pioneers.

Work History

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Sultan Qaboos University
06.2021 - 06.2023
  • Made contributions in curricular development and innovation in teaching strategies.
  • Updated curricula and lesson plans for primary instructors, researching developments in relevant fields and updating materials to reflect most recent data and statistics.
  • Coordinated multiple sections, and instructed general, organic, petroleum, polymer and other cross-disciplinary chemistry courses (undergraduate program) for the college of engineers/college of science and college of medicine.
  • Supervised/managed instructors, teaching assistants, laboratory assistants, and technicians for multi-sections lab and theory courses.
  • Delivered online/hybrid lectures for organic, general and polymer chemistry, using Zoom/Google Meet.
  • Kept abreast of advances in pedagogy and work to continuously improve teaching methods and introduce new approaches to instruction.
  • Sustained professional contact with colleagues and engaged in continuing professional activities to upgrade and augment existing skills or develop new ones.
  • Created dynamic learning environment that valued instructor and student interaction.
  • Acted as an internal examiner to setup the final examinations, evaluation methods and marking scheme.
  • Supervised the multi-sections lab and theory examinations.
  • Proctored mid-term, final examinations, and monitored for the indications of cheating.
  • Impartially evaluated, graded mid-term, final examinations and timely prepared final grads.
  • Mentored students and advised on career paths, degree requirements and post-graduate education options.
  • Served students, clients and programs through participation in assessment processes, academic support units and university committees and task forces.
  • Conducted on-going program assessment, enrollment and retention tracking.
  • Worked with dean to assess and evaluate courses and programs in appropriate discipline.
  • Supported multidisciplinary research teams focused on scholarly publication.
  • Wrote several research grants and research papers for publications
  • Supervised undergraduate and graduate projects in the area of organic and polymer chemistry for scholarly activities.
  • Managed interpersonal conflict situations requiring tact, diplomacy and discretion, supporting culture of diversity, equity and inclusion with students, employees, alumni and other stakeholders.
  • Served as an Applied Chemistry Division Chair, manage the division and participated in different meetings with other divisions, department chair and dean, to discussed the issues and provided possible solutions.
  • Worked as an acting head of the department (chair)
  • Apportioned, as a safety officer of the department and college.
  • Served as an external examiner for master and PhD candidate.
  • Manage the research laboratory instruments such as, UV/Vis, FTIR, Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), HPLC, TG/DTA, DSC and Particle Analyser, etc.


Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Sultan Qaboos University
09.2011 - 05.2021
  • Incorporated exciting and engaging activities to achieve student participation and hands-on learning.
  • Developed and distributed approved course syllabus to students to convey goals and outcomes of course.
  • Fostered motivating learning environment by planning and displaying enthusiasm for general, organic and polymer chemistry.
  • Enhanced effectiveness of curriculum and lectures using computer-assisted instruction programs and audio-visual equipment.
  • Evaluated and revised lesson plans and course content of general, organic chemistry courses (undergraduate program) for the college of engineers/college of science/college of medicine and run successfully as a coordinator/instructor of multiple sections.
  • Introduced new labs, modified the existing lab manuals for the general, organic chemistry laboratory courses, and successfully coordinated the lab courses of multiple sections
  • Supervised instructors, teaching assistants, laboratory assistants, and technicians for multi-sections lab and theory courses.
  • Launched online support for general, organic, petroleum, and polymer chemistry courses by using Moodle.
  • Revised syllabus for petroleum chemistry course for undergraduate program and instructed.
  • Developed syllabus for polymer chemistry course along with lab components for undergraduate program and instructed.
  • Design polymer chemistry course for post-graduate program.
  • Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills, resulting in clear subject matter discussion with students.
  • Encouraged class discussions by building discussions into lessons, actively soliciting input, asking open-ended questions and using techniques to track student participation.
  • Shifted between informal and formal methods of teaching to create multi-layered web of learning incorporating experiments, practical activities, discussions, and projects into lessons.
  • Impartially evaluated and graded, papers, projects, quizzes, tests, homework assignments and provided students with timely academic progress information and feedback.
  • Involved in writing the learning outcome, assessment methods, evaluation techniques, exam setting, marking scheme.
  • Proctored mid-term and final examinations, assisting students with assignment comprehension and monitoring for indications of cheating.
  • Advised student groups, assisting learners in educational programs both on and off campus.
  • Mentored students and advised on career paths, degree requirements and post-graduate education options.
  • Participated in various campus memberships at each assigned school to promote academics and faculty development.
  • Consulted with students individually and in groups to help students efficiently reach learning goals.
  • Maintained regular office hours to provide struggling students with additional course help.
  • Conferred with academic area chair on questions or issues involving course curricula, instructional strategies and college policies and procedures.
  • Supported multidisciplinary research teams focused on scholarly publication.
  • Supervised undergraduate and graduate projects in the area of organic and polymer chemistry for scholarly activities.
  • Inspected lab equipment before student use to reduce chances of potential hazards.
  • Instructed students in lab by teaching safety protocols for proper use of chemicals and safe disposal of hazardous materials.
  • Managed laboratory and stockroom by pricing and ordering chemical supplies and equipment.
  • Managed interpersonal conflict situations requiring tact, diplomacy and discretion, supporting culture of diversity, equity and inclusion with students, employees, alumni and other stakeholders.

Scientist

King Saud University
09.2010 - 08.2011
  • Performed complex troubleshooting and assisted in leading initiatives to solve challenging scientific problems with assays or instrumentation.
  • Conducted experiments in laboratory environment for product development purposes.
  • Documented changes during experiments, noting unexpected issues arising during research activities.
  • Read literature related to scientific area of expertise to remain current in knowledge.
  • Trained new employees on areas of technical expertise and compliance issues relevant to lab setting.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
  • Wrote successful research grant applications.
  • Simultaneously managed several complex projects, meeting all pertinent milestones.
  • Maintained accurate records of all methods and research conducted.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Published research papers.
  • Expert in wet chemistry more specifically air sensitive reactions
  • Skilled in using the following instruments; NMR, UV/Vis, FTIR, Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), HPLC, Light Scattering, TG/DTA, DSC, and Particle Analyser, etc.
  • Proficient in using SciFinder, RefWorks, EndNote, Microsoft Word/Excel/Power Point, and ChemDraw.

NSERC-Postdoctoral Research Fellow

University Of Waterloo
01.2008 - 12.2009
  • Leveraged interpersonal and communication skills to mentor PhD, graduate and undergraduate students.
  • Contributed to and actively participated in research conception, design and execution to address defined problems.
  • Designed research projects and alternative approaches and discussed results with professor.
  • Liaised with supervisor to review grants and manuscripts to develop potential publications.
  • Conducted experiments in laboratory environment for product development purposes.
  • Read literature related to scientific area of expertise to remain current in knowledge.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Simultaneously managed several complex projects, meeting all pertinent milestones.
  • Maintained accurate records of all methods and research conducted.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Published research papers.

Teaching Assistant

University Of Waterloo
09.2000 - 09.2007
  • Conducted undergraduate organic chemistry laboratory courses (CHEM 265L, 266L, 267L, 360L).
  • Helped with grading assignments and tests, providing constructive feedback to students based on results.
  • Assisted course instructor with classroom management and document coordination to maintain positive learning environment.
  • Supported classroom activities, tutoring, and reviewing work.
  • Assisted in maintaining engaging and respectful educational environment by promoting discipline and cooperation.
  • Tutored struggling students individually and in small groups to reinforce learning concepts.
  • Presented wide range of information to students using hands-on instructional techniques for effective comprehension.
  • Supported planning and preparation for culturally-diverse class sessions.
  • Copied, organized and distributed classroom assignments or other paperwork.
  • Handled class records for attendance, assignment grades and course participation scores.

Teaching Assistant

Carleton University
09.1997 - 08.1999
  • Conducted undergraduate general chemistry laboratory courses (CHEM 100, 120L, 123L)
  • Helped with grading assignments and tests, providing constructive feedback to students based on results.
  • Assisted course instructor with classroom management and document coordination to maintain positive learning environment.
  • Supported classroom activities, tutoring, and reviewing work.
  • Assisted in maintaining engaging and respectful educational environment by promoting discipline and cooperation.
  • Tutored struggling students individually and in small groups to reinforce learning concepts.
  • Presented wide range of information to students using hands-on instructional techniques for effective comprehension.
  • Monitored student behavior in laboratories for unsafe or rule-breaking concerns.
  • Shared important information with students concerning upcoming assignments and tests.
  • Maintained laboratory safety by demonstrating equipment and techniques.

Education

Ph.D. - Polymer Chemistry

University of Waterloo
Waterloo, ON
10.2007

Master of Science - Polymer Chemistry

Carleton University
Ottawa, ON
06.1999

Skills

  • General, Organic, Petroleum and Polymer Chemistry
  • Curriculum Development
  • Course Development
  • Class Organization
  • Group Sessions
  • In-Class Lectures and Discussions
  • Online Class and Discussions
  • Lesson Planning
  • Instructional Design
  • Creative Questioning
  • Active Listening
  • Learning Management Interfaces
  • Positive Reinforcement Strategies
  • Student Performance Evaluation
  • Grading Homework and Tests
  • Academic Advisement
  • Career Counseling
  • Personable and Approachable
  • Critical Thinking
  • Research and Analysis
  • Grant Writing
  • Project Management
  • Research Writing
  • Academic Publications
  • Supervision of Research Projects
  • Wet Chemistry
  • Living Anionic Polymerization
  • Air Sensitive Reactions Under Vacuum
  • Modification of Monomers and Polymers
  • Polymer Characterization
  • Instrumental Skills: (NMR, UV/Vis, FTIR, Gel Permeation Chromatography (GPC), HPLC, TG/DTA, DSC, and Particle Analyser, etc)
  • Computer Skills: (SciFinder, RefWorks, EndNote, Microsoft Word/Excel/Power Point, and ChemDraw)
  • Faculty Communication
  • Departmental Activities
  • Tact and Diplomacy
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Exceptional Oral Communication Skills
  • Verbal and Written Communication
  • PowerPoint Presentations
  • Departmental Leadership
  • Blackboard Learn
  • Community Outreach
  • Academic Administration
  • Networking

Publications

  • 1) Nassar, M; Munam, A; Alzebdeh, K; Al-Fahdi, R; Abu Tarboush, B. “Efficient methods of surface functionalization of lignocellulosic waste toward surface clickability enhancement” Composite Interfaces 2022, 29 (1), 79
  • 2) Nassar, M; Alzebdeh, K; Pervez, T; Al-Hinai, N; Al-Jahwari, F; Munam, A; Sider, I. " Polymer powder and pellets comparative performances as bio‑based composites" Iran Polym J. 2021
  • 3) Nassar, M; Munam, A; Alzebdeh, K. "Progress and Challenges in Sustainability, Compatibility, and Production of Eco-Composites: A State-of-Art Review" J Appl Polym Sci 2021, 138 (43), 1
  • 4) Al-Busaidi, I; Haque, A.; Balushi, R; Rather, J; Munam, A; Khan, M. "Synthesis, characterization, and optoelectronic properties of phenothiazine-based organic co-poly-ynes" New J. Chem., 2021,45, 15082
  • 5) Abed, R; Muthukrishnan, T; Al Khaburi, M; Al-Senafi, F; Munam, A; Mahmoud, H. “Degradability and biofouling of oxo-biodegradable polyethylene in the planktonic and benthic zones of the Arabian Gulf” Mar Pollut Bul. 2020, 150, 110639
  • 6) Mamun, A; Souier, M.T; Mujibur Rahman, S. M; Al-Harthi, S. H; Munam, A. “Miscibility and thermal stability of ethyl vinyl acetate and ethylene-octane copolymer blends” Polym. Sci. Ser. A, 2017 59, 397.
  • 7) Rather, J. A; Khudaish, E, A; Munam, A; Qurashi, A; Kannan, P. “Electrochemically reduced fullerene–graphene oxide interface for swift detection of Parkinsons disease biomarkersSensors and Actuators B: Chemical; 2016, 237, 672-684.
  • 8) Rather, J. A; Al Harthi, A, J; Khudaish, E, A; Munam, A; Qurashi, A; Kannan, P. “Electrochemical sensor based on fullerene nanorods for detection of paraben an endocrine disruptor” Analytical Methods; 2016, 8, 5690-5700.
  • 9) Truzzolillo, D.; Vlassopoulos, D.; Munam, A; Gauthier, M. “Depletion gels from dense soft colloids: Rheology and thermoreversible melting” J. Rheol., 2014, 58 (5), 1441 1462.
  • 10) Truzzolillo, D.; Marzi, D.; Marakis, J.; Capone, B.; Camargo, M.; Munam, A.; Moingeon, F.; Gauthier, M.; Likos, N.; Vlassopoulos, D. “Glassy states in asymmetric mixtures of soft and hard colloids” Phys. Rev. Lett., 2013, 111(20), 208301/1-208301/5.
  • 11) Truzzolillo, D.; Vlassopoulos, D.; Gauthier, M.; Munam, A. “Thermal melting in depletion gels of hairy nanoparticles” Soft Matter, 2013, 9, 9088.
  • 12) Huh, M.; Gauthier, M.; Munam, A. “pH-Responsive Films of Electrostatically Adsorbed Arborescent Copolymers” Journal of Macromolecular Science, Part A: Pure and Applied Chemistry, 2012 49, 251.
  • 13) Gauthier, M.; Munam, A. “Polystyrene-graft-poly(2-vinylpyridine)copolymers: Solution polyelectrolyte behavior” RSC Advances, 2012, 2, 3100.
  • 14) Stiakakis, E.; Erwin, B. M.; Vlassopoulos, D.; Cloitre, M.; Munam, A.; Gauthier, M.; Iatrou, H.; Hadjichristidis, N. “Probing glassy states in binary mixtures of soft interpenetrable colloids” J Phys Condens Matter. 2011, 23(23), 234116/1-234116/10.
  • 15) Gauthier, M.; Munam, A. “Synthesis of 1,4-Polybutadiene Dendrimer – Arborescent Polymer HybridsMacromolecules 2010, 43, 3672.
  • 16) Gauthier, M.; Munam. A. “Cross-linked Latex Particles Grafted with Polyisoprene as Model Rubber-compatible FillerPolymer 2009, 50, 6032.
  • 17) Munam, A.; Gauthier, M. “Large-Scale Synthesis of Arborescent Polystyrene J. Polym. Sci. Part A: Polym. Chem. 2008, 46, 5742.
  • 18) Yun, S.; Gadd, G. E.; Lo, V.; Gauthier, M.; Munam, A. “Temperature-Responsive Supramolecular Assembly and Morphology of Arborescent Copolymer Micelles with a Solvophilic Core−Solvophobic Shell StructureMacromolecules 2008, 41, 7166.
  • 19) Mayer, C.; Zaccarelli, E.; Stiakakis, E.; Likos, C. N.; Sciortino, F.; Munam, A.; Gauthier, M.; Hadjichristidis, N.; Iatrou, H.; Tartaglia, P.; Löwen, H.; Vlassopoulos, D. “Asymmetric Caging in Soft Colloidal MixturesNature Materials 2008, 7, 780.

Additional Information

SELECTED PRESENTATIONS (Speaker is underlined):

  • 1) Oral Presentation Munam, A. at the Internal Grants Research Forum Program 2018, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman. “Synthesis of pH‑Responsive Natural Polymers”.
  • 2) Poster presentation Munam, A.; Al Barwani, F. at the Green & Sustainable Chemistry Conference 2017, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman. “Synthesis of pH‑Responsive Natural Polymers”.
  • 3) Keynote Speaker Munam, A. at the 6th International Conference for Young Chemists (ICYC) 2017, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Penang, Malaysia. “Living anionic polymerization/grafting a powerful tool for the synthesis of highly branched polymer with control molecular weight and architectures”.
  • 4) Oral Presentation Munam, A.; Gauthier, M. at the 3rd International Conference on Polymer Materials Science (PMS) 2017, Bangkok, Thailand. “Synthesis of 1,4‑polybutadiene dendrimer – arborescent polymer hybrids”.
  • 5) Invited lecture Munam, A. at the 11th International Symposium on Analytical and Environmental Chemistry ISAEC 2016, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan. “Arborescent polystyrene-graft-poly(2-vinylpyridine) copolymers: solution polyelectrolyte behavior”.
  • 6) Plenary lecture Munam, A. at the One-day International Seminar on Scientific Trends 2016, Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur, Pakistan. “Living anionic/grafting technique a powerful tool for polymer synthesis with precisely controlled architecture and molecular weight”.
  • 7) Invited guest speaker Munam, A. at the 4th International Conference on Environment Horizon 2015, University of Karachi, Pakistan “Synthesis of branched polyelectrolyte using living anionic/grafting technique and study solution behavior for possible application in portable/sewage/industrial water treatment”.
  • 8) Oral presentation Munam, A.; Gauthier, M. at the Canadian Society for Chemistry (CSC) Conference 2009, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. “Solution Behavior of Branched Polyelectrolytes”.
  • 9) Oral presentation Munam, A.; Gauthier, M. at the 33rd Canadian High Polymer Forum 2007, Gananoque, Ontario, Canada. “Synthesis of 1,4-Polybutadiene Dendrimer – Arborescent Polymer Hybrids”.
  • 10) Oral presentation Munam, A.; Gauthier, M. at the 28th Institute of Polymer Research (IPR) Symposium 2006, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. “Solution Behavior of Branched Polyelectrolytes”.
  • 11) Poster presentation Munam, A.; Gauthier, M. at the Canadian Society for Chemistry (CSC) Conference 2006, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. “Solution Behavior of Branched Polyelectrolytes”.
  • 12) Oral presentation Munam, A.; Gauthier, M. at the Institute for Polymer Research (IPR) Silver Symposium 2003, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. “Cross-linked Latex Particles as Low Density Fillers for Rubbers”.


PATENT:

Title: Preparation of high performance fiber from natural fiber (Date Pam)

Patent Number: (WO/2020/139088)

Inventor: M.A.Nassar, Mahmoud.; Alzebdeh, Khalid.; Munam, Abdul.; Al-Hinai, Nasr

International Application number: PCT/OM2018/050011

Publication Date: July, 02, 2020

Search-Link https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/detail.jsf?docId=WO2020139088&_cid=P20-KEMCP3-85812-1


BOOK CHAPTER:

Imran Khan, M. A. Usmani, A. H. Bhat, J. A. Rather, S. I. Hassan and Munam. A, Recent Progress on Rubber Based Biocomposites: From Carbon Nanotubes to Ionic Liquids in book ‘Green Biocomposites: Manufacturing and Properties’ Publisher: Springer, Switzerland, Peer Reviewed Book Chapter (2017) 91-123. DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-46610-1_5


WORKSHOP:

Conducted four hours of workshop on the topic “Types of plastics, mode of synthesis, uses, and importance of its recycling from the environmental prospect” manufacturing and processing platform (2018), Sultan Qaboos University, Oman


SUPERVISIONS OF DOCTORAL STUDENTS:

  • Co-supervisor for Ph.D. Thesis 2017– 2021

Thesis Title: Optimization of Processing Framework of High-Performance Eco-Sustainable Date Palm Plastic Composites (DPPCs)

Student Name: Mahmoud M.A. Nassar

Student ID: 110038/17

Supervisor: Dr. Khalid Alzebdeh, (College of Engineering, SQU, Muscat, Oman)


  • Co-supervisor for Ph.D. Thesis 2018– 2023

Thesis Title: Synthesis of flexible acrylates for application in lithium-ion battery

Student Name: Zeyana Saif Mubarak Al-Shukaili

Student ID: 2017401402

Supervisor: Dr. Famiza Binti Abd Latif, (College of Science, University Teknologi MARA, Malaysia)


OTHER ACTIVITY:

Health and Safety Warden 2000 - 2009

University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada

  • Worked in conjunction with the health and safety officer, faculty of sciences to make laboratories in the chemistry department a safe working place


External Examiner 2020

External examiner for M.Sc. Thesis

Thesis Title: Ring-opening of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon over Cr-Beta Zeolites for improving diesel quality

Student Name: Salim Ba Awain

Student ID: 117788

Supervisor: Dr. Muhammad Usman, (College of Engineering, SQU, Oman)


PhD Thesis advisory Committee Member 2020 – 2023

  • Member of the PhD thesis advisory committee (Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman)

Thesis Title: The role of organic agriculture and native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in yield and salt tolerance of cucumber,

and the characteristics and function of synthetic biodegradable polymer to promote the sustainable agriculture in Oman

Student Name: Ali Al Hinai

Student ID: 14894

Supervisor: Dr. Rhonda Janke, (College of Agricultural & Marine Sciences)


  • Member of the PhD thesis advisory committee (United Arab Emirates University, Dubai, UAE )

Thesis Title: Polyester synthesis using Novel Monomer

Student Name: Safa F. Ahmed

Student ID: 202090196

Supervisor: Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, (College of Engineering)


  • Member of the PhD thesis advisory committee (United Arab Emirates University, Dubai, UAE)

Thesis Title: Investigation of Novel Polyester

Student Name: Rumaisa Tariq

Student ID: 202090247

Supervisor: Dr. Muhammad Iqbal, (College of Engineering)


COMMUNITY SERVICE: 2011 – 2023

  • Conducted seminar and workshop for local and international high school students for enhancing their interest in polymer chemistry
  • Provide technical assessment to local polymer industries in Oman


AWARD:

  • Recipient of University teaching and learning award (Best Teacher Award‑2016)

Timeline

Associate Professor of Chemistry

Sultan Qaboos University
06.2021 - 06.2023

Assistant Professor of Chemistry

Sultan Qaboos University
09.2011 - 05.2021

Scientist

King Saud University
09.2010 - 08.2011

NSERC-Postdoctoral Research Fellow

University Of Waterloo
01.2008 - 12.2009

Teaching Assistant

University Of Waterloo
09.2000 - 09.2007

Teaching Assistant

Carleton University
09.1997 - 08.1999

Ph.D. - Polymer Chemistry

University of Waterloo

Master of Science - Polymer Chemistry

Carleton University
Abdul MunamProfessor Chemistry