Introduction

 

Farooq was born in a small city called Sadiqabad in Pakistan, raised in a middle-class Muslim family. He  was the first among my siblings to attend university and fortunate to become the first in my family to earn an undergraduate degree in engineering. Following his graduation, he served as an engineering intern at Lahore Electric Supply Company in Lahore, Pakistan. At the age of 22, working over ten hours a day in Pakistan's energy and power sector, he discovered the severe challenges the country faced due to a lack of advanced infrastructure, grappling with significant energy shortages and distribution system challenges.

 

Through rigorous on-site work, he realized the power of technology in solving real-world problems. He found a profound concern for problem-solving and decided to pursue advanced research to address these issues. Despite it being a challenging decision, especially after his father passed away, his mother and my sister, "Humaira," made sacrifices allowing him to pursue his dreams. Thus, he commenced his Master's in Thermal Engineering at the top-ranked National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) in Pakistan. During his time at NUST, he focused on efficient energy management in buildings using solar thermal energy. Achieving excellent academic grades and publishing an SCI paper, he was among the very few fully-funded scholars for his Master's.

 

The fervent passion to delve deeper into the intricacies of this dynamic field drove me towards pursuing a doctoral degree after obtaining a Master's in Renewable Energy. With a comprehensive understanding gained during his Master's studies, he aspire to engage in advanced research to address crucial challenges in Pakistan's energy sector. Additionally, he aims to counter global warming by devising innovative strategies to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Hence, he is enthusiastic about the prospect of engaging in cutting-edge research, pushing the boundaries of innovation, and making a lasting impact in the ever-evolving field of renewable energy.

 

Why China

 

The decision to study abroad brought forth a series of unique challenges, especially as the only son in my family. While the prospects of global education offered unparalleled opportunities for personal and academic growth, it came with pressures of family responsibilities and expectations. Balancing his aspirations with the inherent sense of duty towards his family was a delicate task. The emotional strain of being distant from his mother (who became a single parent after his father's passing) and concerns about fulfilling the role of the only son added complexity to the decision-making process. However, realizing the transformative potential of international education, he embarked on this journey, resilient in facing challenges and dedicated not only to furthering his education but also ultimately contributing to the betterment of his family and country. Presently, his mother is immensely proud of me. She has consistently told him that she didn't lead the life she desired, expressing her happiness that he is pursuing his dreams. Additionally, she often says, "Your doctoral degree isn't just yours, it's ours too," as she lives alone in distant Pakistan, enduring much pain. Hearing her words fills him with excitement and motivates him to keep moving forward.

 

Despite receiving admission offers from three different universities, he ultimately chose China, particularly Shanghai Jiao Tong University, to pursue his doctoral degree. Research in the field of renewable energy represents strategic decisions rooted in academic and professional considerations. China stands at the forefront of research in renewable energy and its implementation, providing an ideal environment for in-depth exploration in this domain. The country's commitment to sustainable development, coupled with substantial investments in renewable energy technology, offers him unparalleled opportunities to immerse himsellf in cutting-edge research and witness the practical applications of renewable energy solutions.

 

Shanghai Jiao Tong University is renowned for its excellence in engineering and innovation, making it the perfect institution to nurture my academic ambitions. The university places significant emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and state-of-the-art facilities, aligning perfectly with my research interests. Furthermore, its diverse, vibrant, and prestigious academic community provides a unique platform for knowledge exchange, fostering an environment conducive to comprehensive learning and innovation. The prospect of being guided by distinguished faculty in the field of renewable energy further solidified his decision. Notably, the expertise of his mentor, Professor Zhang Peng, along with the university's collaborative spirit, has significantly contributed to his knowledge growth and successful pursuit of his research goals.

 

Moreover, the enchanting beauty of Shanghai and its dynamic cityscape provide an inspiring backdrop for academic pursuits. The longstanding and robust diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China further strengthened his choice, ensuring a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. Choosing Shanghai Jiao Tong University not only signifies a commitment to academic excellence but also reflects his desire to immerse himself in a vibrant cultural environment, fostering cross-cultural understanding and collaboration in this renowned city known for innovation and global connectivity.

 

Research Work

 

Farooq's doctoral journey, which commenced in 2019, resembled an unexpected rollercoaster ride, filled with unforeseen challenges and surprising victories. Typical academic hurdles marked the initial phase, but the true turning point emerged with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the university temporarily closed, he returned to his home country, expecting this to be a brief interruption. Little did he anticipates that this temporary departure would evolve into an unforeseen three-year ordeal due to the sustained and unpredictable nature of the pandemic.

 

The initial adjustment to remote research and learning was challenging, compounded by emotional pressures stemming from separation from the academic environment. However, in a situation rife with uncertainty, the unwavering support and guidance of his mentor became the stabilizing anchor for his academic vessel. Regular online meetings and consistent communication ensured that despite the distance, he remained on course. Hid mentor's support played a pivotal role in turning obstacles into stepping stones. His guidance not only aided Farooq's research but also provided a sense of inner stability during tumultuous times. While many students faced setbacks during this period, he found himself achieving unexpected milestones, a testament to personal determination and the resilience instilled by a supportive academic ecosystem.

 

In his doctoral thesis, he conducted comprehensive research on the utilization of solar thermal energy for space and water heating systems by considering several optimization parameters. This involved detailed studies on solar collectors' dimensions and types, their tilt angles, flow rates of heat transfer fluids, and the efficacy of sensible and latent heat storage, among other factors. Furthermore, his research delved into the manufacturing and characterization of advanced and highly efficient Radiative Cooling (RC) materials, including biomimetic multilayers and colored coatings, offering low-cost, efficient, straightforward, and sustainable alternatives to meet energy demands. Additionally, a numerical model was developed to validate the RC potential calculated experimentally under specific climatic conditions and provide RC resource maps for in-depth analysis of meteorological conditions' impact on RC emitter performance under broader conditions. A primary drawback of RC was its tendency to cause overcooling during winters. To overcome this challenge, an advanced dual-layer fiber was developed, offering dual functionality of solar heating and radiative cooling by simply flipping its sides. Finally, a numerical model was devised to conduct a detailed techno-economic analysis of using RC coatings as a cold roof, demonstrating their efficacy in practical applications.

 

Despite numerous challenges, he has published over 10 SCI papers, a book chapter, and presented 3 conference papers during his doctoral tenure. Among these, 5 SCI papers (Q1) were published with him as the first author, with impact factors of 15.9, 8.7, 5.6, 5.6, and 4.6, respectively. Currently, he is finalizing the initial draft of his sixth paper and plan to submit it before graduation. His research has garnered over 230 citations and attained an h-index of 7. He is attaching the link to his Google Scholar profile for reference.

 

Life in Shanghai

 

Studying at Shanghai Jiao Tong University has provided a unique opportunity to immerse himself in the rich tapestry of Chinese culture. Shanghai, a city where tradition meets modernity, serves as the perfect backdrop for this experience. The School of Mechanical Engineering at Shanghai Jiao Tong University is renowned for its academic excellence, not only opening doors to cutting-edge research but also to a vibrant cultural landscape. Every moment spent in Shanghai, from exploring ancient temples and traditional teahouses to navigating bustling streets lined with skyscrapers, has been an adventure bridging the gap between the past and the future.

 

One of the most valuable aspects of pursuing a doctoral degree is the chance to establish meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Forming friendships with both academia and beyond becomes an integral part of the journey. The university's international ambiance creates an environment where students from around the globe collaborate, share ideas, and forge lifelong friendships. Interaction with local students and residents further enriches the experience, offering invaluable insights into the nuances of Chinese culture. Engaging in cultural exchange events, industry visits, participating in traditional festivals, or simply sharing a cup of coffee with new friends contributes to a holistic, enriching academic and personal experience.

 

Beyond academic realms, Shanghai itself becomes a captivating classroom, providing opportunities for practical learning about Chinese traditions, customs, and daily life. From mastering the art of using chopsticks to appreciating the finesse of Chinese calligraphy, the cultural immersion facilitated by studying at Shanghai Jiao Tong University extends far beyond lecture halls and laboratories. Overall, pursuing a doctoral degree and studying at Shanghai Jiao Tong University is not merely about academic growth but also about embracing a new way of life, fostering enduring friendships, and integrating one's story into the vibrant tapestry of Chinese culture.

 

Future Plans

As he approaches the pinnacle of obtaining his doctoral degree, he finds himself exhilarated by the prospect of contributing as a postdoctoral researcher in cutting-edge laboratories. His primary focus is to utilize his skills and knowledge in developing innovative solutions aimed at alleviating the energy crisis and addressing pressing environmental issues. With millions still lacking access to electricity and the imminent threat of global warming, efforts must pivot toward sustainable and impactful research. He believes that by joining renowned laboratories, he can actively engage in seeking practical solutions that not only cater to the energy needs of underserved populations but also contribute to a broader struggle against climate change. In fact, he has already received several postdoctoral acceptance letters prior to completing his doctoral degree. This stands as a testament to the excellence of his work and the recognition garnered, largely attributed to the invaluable guidance provided by Professor Zhang Peng during his tenure at the esteemed Shanghai Jiao Tong University. He is eager to continue this impactful journey of research