forough.momayez31
About Candidate
I am a PhD‑trained Chemical Engineer with extensive experience in bioprocess development, chemical and biotechnological analysis, and sustainable materials research. My background spans academic research, postdoctoral work, and industrial R&D at RISE, where I have contributed to projects involving biomass conversion, lignin valorization, catalytic upgrading, and advanced analytical characterization. I am skilled in method development, data interpretation, experimental design, and troubleshooting complex laboratory challenges.
I thrive in collaborative, interdisciplinary environments and enjoy working closely with researchers, engineers, and industrial partners. My strengths include analytical thinking, structured problem‑solving, clear communication, and the ability to quickly learn new technologies and processes. I am motivated by sustainability‑driven innovation and by roles where I can combine hands‑on laboratory work with process optimization, continuous improvement, and cross‑functional coordination.
I am now seeking opportunities where I can contribute my technical expertise, drive for quality, and strong research background to impactful projects in chemical analysis, bioprocessing, sustainable chemistry, or operations‑focused roles within industry.
Location
Education
My PhD in Chemical Engineering focused on developing efficient bioprocesses for converting lignocellulosic biomass into bioethanol and biogas. I worked across the entire value chain — from pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis to fermentation, process optimization, and performance evaluation. A major part of my research involved designing and executing experiments, developing analytical methods, and interpreting complex chemical and biological data to understand process bottlenecks and improve yields. My work combined chemical engineering principles with biotechnology, giving me strong expertise in biomass characterization, process modelling, and advanced analytical techniques. I collaborated closely with industry and academic partners, gaining experience in multidisciplinary research environments and large-scale biorefinery projects. Through this work, I developed a deep understanding of sustainable process development and the practical challenges of converting renewable raw materials into valuable products
During my Master’s studies in Chemical Engineering, I focused on catalytic process development and the design of efficient reaction systems. My work centered on synthesizing and characterizing modified zeolite catalysts and evaluating their performance in light‑olefin production. This involved hands‑on laboratory work, method development, and extensive analysis using techniques such as SEM, XRD, BET surface area measurements, and NH₃‑TPD. Through this work, I became deeply familiar with catalyst preparation, structural characterization, acidity evaluation, and fixed‑bed reactor operation. Beyond the research itself, my Master’s program strengthened my foundation in process design, supported by coursework in areas such as Chemical Reaction Engineering, Advanced Thermodynamics, Transport Phenomena, Process Control, Separation Processes, and Process Design & Optimization. These courses gave me a strong understanding of industrial process flows, mass and energy balances, equipment design, and scale‑up considerations.
During my Bachelor’s studies in Chemical Engineering, I built a strong foundation in the core principles of the field through a combination of theoretical coursework and extensive laboratory training. The program focused on fundamental concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat and mass transfer, reaction engineering, and separation processes. Through hands‑on lab work, I learned to apply these principles in practice, operate analytical and process equipment, and interpret experimental data. This experience gave me a solid understanding of how chemical engineering concepts translate into real process behavior and prepared me for more advanced research and process‑design work in my later studies.
Work & Experience
At RISE, I worked as a researcher within the area of bio‑based materials and process development, contributing to projects focused on renewable resources, fiber‑based materials, and sustainable chemical processes. My role combined hands‑on laboratory work with analytical development, method optimization, and close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams. I was responsible for planning and executing experiments, operating pilot‑scale and laboratory‑scale equipment, and performing detailed chemical and material analyses. This included developing and refining analytical methods, troubleshooting experimental challenges, and interpreting complex data to support project goals. I worked closely with colleagues across different research groups and with industrial partners, contributing to solution‑oriented, application‑driven research. My work at RISE strengthened my skills in experimental design, process understanding, and cross‑functional communication. It also deepened my knowledge of sustainable materials, biorefinery concepts, and the practical aspects of translating research into industrially relevant outcomes. Through this experience, I became highly adaptable, collaborative, and confident in managing both analytical tasks and broader research responsibilities within dynamic project environments.
During my postdoctoral research, I worked on the valorization of lignin and other biorefinery residues, focusing on catalytic upgrading, chemical characterization, and the development of sustainable material solutions. My work combined experimental research with advanced analytical techniques, including chromatographic, spectroscopic, and thermal methods, to understand reaction pathways and optimize conversion processes. I collaborated closely with multidisciplinary teams, industrial partners, and academic researchers, contributing to projects aimed at transforming renewable feedstocks into valuable chemicals and materials. This role strengthened my expertise in method development, catalyst evaluation, data interpretation, and troubleshooting complex laboratory challenges. It also deepened my understanding of biorefinery systems, circular material flows, and the practical considerations involved in scaling sustainable processes. Through this experience, I developed strong project‑driven research skills, the ability to manage multiple analytical workflows, and a collaborative mindset suited to innovation‑focused environments. My postdoctoral work reinforced my commitment to sustainable chemistry and broadened my technical and analytical capabilities within biomass conversion and material development.
