Qatar university announces new QAPCO polymer chair

Qatar University’s Center of Advanced Materials (CAM) welcomed Prof. Igor Krupa as its new QAPCO Polymer Chair. Prof Krupa, who specialises in polymer science, will work to enhance basic and applied research in the field of industrial polymers, especially Polyolefins, which are of particular interest to QAPCO and which play a major role in developing the petrochemical industry in the State of Qatar. This collaborative arrangement further strengthens the links between QU and QAPCO and will ensure close cooperation between the two organisations particularly in research and development. During his time as Chair, Prof Krupa will work closely with QAPCO research and development on the development of novel Polyolefin-based materials such as composites and nanocomposites for various industrial applications. He will also promote basic research in the smart fields of modern polymer science such as plastic-based electronics and polymeric bio-materials. This collaboration will build the foundations for establishing QU as a center of expertise in polymer science. At the launch event, held at QU and attended by QU President Prof. Sheikha Al-Misnad, Dr. Mohammed Al Mulla, VC and CEO of QAPCO, Dr Mariam Al Ali Al Maadeed, Director of CAM and other officials from the university and QAPCO, Prof. Krupa spoke of his ambitions for the years ahead, including the establishment of more Masters and PhD programs. Prof. Krupa said: “Through this position I want to establish new research which inspires and motivates current and new students to get involved. New projects bring new people and this could be a collaboration of the best minds internationally to benefit Qatar.” QU President Prof. Sheikha Al-Misnad said: “The launch of the QAPCO Polymer Chair coincides with the expansion of QU’s portfolio of graduate degrees, particularly the MSc in Materials Science. “Oil and gas is Qatar’s bread and butter and any further focus in this area is a step in the right direction. We can excel in what is important to us as a nation. QU already has strong relations with the oil and gas industry and these will be further strengthened with the QAPCO Polymer Chair.” Dr. Mariam Al Ali Al Maadeed, Director of QU’s CAM, said: “This collaboration will ensure the quality of research in the polyolefin area, which is very important for the energy and environment in Qatar. Prof. Igor has an extensive experience in the field of polymer science and technology and he will add a great value to the Center of Advanced Materials at QU and the research division at QAPCO.” Dr. Mohammed Al Mulla, VC and CEO at QAPCO said: “QAPCO and Qatar University have, over many years, developed an excellent working partnership and collaborated together on many projects. But I feel that this new QAPCO Polymer Chair is special as it will bring numerous benefits to both parties. The university will have the advantage of working with one of the leading experts in his field which can only inspire both academics and students to further develop themselves so that they may reach their full potential. “For QAPCO, I hope that Dr. Krupa can stimulate our internal research and development programs and identify research that can advance and streamline future processes. “QAPCO and Qatar University are, I feel, true pioneers in education and can lead the way through projects such as this Chair and demonstrate to the world that through research and development we are planning for the future.”