Co-director
Center of Excellence for Integrated Nanotechnology
Dr. Mohammad Alotaibi completed his Ph.D. from the School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, in the United Kingdom, 2008, his major of study in Organic Chemistry with Professor Keith Smith. He is currently an Assistant Research Professor at KACST. His research involves the development of novel organic synthetic methods, especially ones that are “greener” than traditional methods. Also, he has great interests towards synthesis of compounds with unique properties. In particular current research projects involve the use of zeolites and solid-supported reagents as catalysts to gain regioselectivity in organic reactions. Active collaborations exist with Prof. Brian J. Cantwell at Stanford University where they are studying the fundamentals of green propellants such as ionic liquids. In addition, he is also working in collaboration with Prof. Michael Grätzel from École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Perovskite to develop solar cell technologies. Furthermore, he is interested in the preparation of catalysis with supported metal nanoparticles such as Au, Pd and Ir to be used in different reactions such as selective aerobic oxidation of alcohols and decomposition of formic acids. Mohammad has been awarded several awards and medals such as Medal of proficiency and Medal of innovation from the Saudi Arabian Minister of Interior. Also, Dr. Alotaibi is a member of many associations including the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), the American Chemical Society (ACS), American Academy of Forensic Science (AAFS) and the Saudi Chemical Society.