Biography
Associate Prof. Dr. Tawheed Hashem is a materials scientist specializing in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), surface-mounted MOFs (SURMOFs), and biomaterials for sensing, energy, and healthcare applications. He earned his B.Sc. in Biophysics from Al-Azhar University, an M.Sc. in Biomaterials Science & Tissue Engineering from the National Research Center/Al-Azhar University, and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Heidelberg University. Following a postdoctoral fellowship at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) – Institute of Functional Interfaces (IFG), he led a research group at IFG and, in 2021, was appointed Vice Director of the KIT Innovation HUB “Prevention in Construction.” In 2025, he joined Zewail City of Science and Technology as Associate Professor of Biomaterials.
Dr. Hashem has coordinated international projects across academia and industry, supervised multidisciplinary teams, and advanced technologies from lab discovery to application. His publication record spans high-impact outlets in MOFs, membranes, nanomaterials, and smart coatings; he is co-inventor on European patent applications for MOF-based sensing platforms. His current work focuses on scalable, durable MOF/SURMOF sensors (“electronic nose/tongue” systems), micro-/nano-structured surfaces, and clinically relevant biomaterials. He also serves as a scientific advisor to companies in the Middle East, driving technology transfer and commercialization.
News
Visit to NCFA Aquaculture Facilities
Egypt, Cairo | February 2026
Prof. Hashem was invited by the National Company of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NCFA), Egypt, to visit its aquaculture facilities in Ghalioun and Al-Fayrouz fish farms to contribute to the development of a comprehensive strategic plan for the company’s production system. The visit also included in-depth discussions on NCFA’s future expansion plans across Africa, with a focus on sustainable growth and regional collaboration.
Participation in IFAT Saudi Arabia
Riyadh, KSA | January 2026
Prof. Tawheed Hashem is invited to attend IFAT Saudi Arabia 2026 as an exhibitor together with UNIDO. Prof. Hashem will also be giving a talk on innovations in waste recycling.
IFAT Saudi Arabia – organized by dmg events, licensed by Messe München – is the pioneering platform for waste management, recycling, and water management in the Middle East and North Africa. It connects companies with government agencies and other companies, accompanied by a technical conference program. It is the central meeting place for innovation, business opportunities and sustainable partnerships.
Building a Sustainable Future: Prof. Dr. Tawheed Hashem Leads Regional Dialogue on Green Construction in the Middle East and Africa
Cairo, Egypt | 04.11.2025
At the recent Sustainability in Refrigeration Conference & Inauguration held in Cairo, Prof. Dr. Tawheed Hashem met with representatives from several prominent international and governmental organizations — including the German Energy Agency (dena), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the German-Arab Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK), and the German Embassy in Cairo — alongside senior officials from the Egyptian Ministry of Environment and the Egyptian Ministry of Housing.
Throughout the meetings, Prof. Dr. Hashem highlighted the joint mission of promoting sustainable and climate-resilient construction across the Middle East and Africa, emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency, environmental protection, and long-term material durability.
He also discussed in depth the Rebuilding Gaza Project, providing expert advice on sustainable and durable construction strategies adapted to the region’s unique environmental and logistical challenges. In addition, he presented the significance of pre-concrete cooling technologies as a vital component of sustainable concrete production — demonstrating their direct impact on reducing emissions, improving durability, and enhancing environmental performance.
This event represented another milestone in KTI-Egypt’s ongoing commitment to advancing sustainability and innovation in construction, bridging science, engineering, and social responsibility to build a more resilient and energy-efficient future for the region.
Meeting with the Governor of Beheira on Rasheed Port Development.
Beheira, Egypt | 30.05.2025
Prof. Hashem has been invited for discussions with the Governor of Beheira, HE Dr. Jacqueline Azer, on the development and operation of the new Rasheed Port. The project is a complete fishing port at the mediterranean sea, managing everything from boat preparation to fish sales. It's 670m long and 60m wide, featuring a pier, main road, and facilities like an ice factory, markets, and repair workshops. Covering 44,211 sqm, it includes customs, administration, cold storage, and various sales points.
Attending the 100th Cairo Climate Talks.
Cairo, Egypt | 25.05.2025
Prof. Hashem has received an invitation from the German Embassy in Cairo to attend the celebration of the “100th edition of the Cairo Climate Talks”, taking place on 25th May, 2025. The Cairo Climate Talks (CCT) were initiated in 2011 building on the strong partnership between Egypt and Germany in the fields of energy and environment. The initiative presents public events and expert workshops to provide a platform to exchange experiences, raise awareness and foster cooperation between policymakers, business, the scientific community, and civil society.
New Appointment as Associate Professor at Zewail City of Science and Technology!
Cairo, Egypt | 01.01.2025
Prof. Hashem has been appointed as Associate Professor of Biomaterial Sciences at Zewail City of Science and Technology in Egypt, where he teaches biomaterial sciences and tissue engineering. Started in summer semester 2025, this course provides undergraduate students with a comprehensive introduction to the field of biomaterials science, covering the properties, interactions, and applications of materials used in medical and biological contexts. Students will explore historical developments, fundamental properties, and cutting-edge advancements in biomaterials, preparing them for careers in biomedical research, medical device design, and tissue engineering.
New Research Article on ZnO/TiO₂ Bilayer Thin Films Published!
Karlsruhe, Germany | 29.04.2025
Check out the new research article co-authored by Dr. Tawheed Hashem, titled "Optical and structural properties of ZnO/TiO₂ bilayer thin films deposited by pulsed DC magnetron sputtering", in the Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Electronics.
This study explores the deposition of ZnO/TiO₂ bilayer thin films on glass substrates using pulsed DC magnetron sputtering, focusing on their structural and optical properties. This work contributes to the understanding of multilayer thin film structures and their role in advancing electronic and photonic technologies
Check out the full details in the paper and feel free to reach out with questions or ideas for collaboration!
New research article on SURMOF materials is out!
Karlsruhe, Germany | 15.12.2024
Check out the new study co-authored by Dr. Tawheed Hashem, in which the authors explore how the outer surfaces of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs)—beyond their well-known porous interiors—can be functionalized to create superhydrophobic materials with extraordinary properties.
By grafting hydrocarbon chains onto precisely engineered MOF thin films (SURMOFs), the authors achieved static water contact angles exceeding 160°. These surfaces rival polymer brushes in behavior, as shown by detailed theoretical modeling and infrared spectroscopy. The coiled hydrocarbon chains reduce surface free energy, giving rise to superhydrophobicity, while nanometer-scale surface roughness further minimizes water adhesion strength.
This work paves the way for innovative applications of MOFs in fields where controlling surface wetting is crucial, from anti-fouling coatings to advanced filtration technologies.
Check out the full details in the paper and feel free to reach out with questions or ideas for collaboration!
Attending the Egyptian-European Investment Conference
Cairo, Egypt | 29.06.2024
Dr. Tawheed Hashem was invited to attend the Egyptian-European Investment Conference in Cairo, Egypt. During the conference, he had the honor of meeting with several key figures, including:
- Dr. Mohamed Shaker, Egyptian Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy
- Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Egyptian Minister of Environment
- Mrs. Natascha Boussiga and Mr. Moritz Cleff, CEO and Co-CEO of the German-Arab Chamber of Industry and Commerce (AHK - Egypt)
- Mr. Lionel Rapaille, Director of Lending Operations at the European Investment Bank
These meetings provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss future European-Egyptian relations, potential projects and collaborations in Egypt. The discussions were highly promising, indicating a bright future for the Egyptian market. The Egyptian-European coalition is set to bolster trade and cultural exchange, fostering a prosperous environment for growth and cooperation.
New research article on the electronic nose is out!
Karlsruhe, Germany | 26.05.2024
Spearheaded by Dr. Tawheed Hashem and Dr. Salih Okur, research team from KIT has successfully developed a novel approach for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using tailored SURMOF sensors, so called “Electronic Nose”. These sensors leverage metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) technology with slight variations, allowing for precise tuning of the sensors' interaction with VOCs, and leading to enhanced detection efficacy and specificity.
Check out the new paper to learn more about the technology.
Introducing E-Energize, LLC: Revolutionizing Energy Storage with Z-Battery Technology!
Wyoming, USA | 15.05.2024
We are thrilled to announce the launch of E-Energize, LLC, a cutting-edge startup dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions. Co-founded by Dr. Tawheed Hashem, the company’s mission is to transform the way we store and utilize power by harnessing the incredible potential of Z-Battery technology.
Z-Batteries represent a paradigm shift in energy storage. Unlike conventional batteries, which rely on chemical reactions, Z-Battery technology utilizes zero-emission materials. This breakthrough innovation not only reduces our carbon footprint but also enhances efficiency and reliability.
The new Z-Battery technology offers various advantages:
Eco-Friendly: Our batteries emit no harmful substances during operation, making them a responsible choice for the environment.
High Performance: E-Energize Z-Batteries boast impressive energy density, ensuring optimal power storage in a compact form.
Longevity: Say goodbye to frequent replacements! Z-Batteries technology extends battery lifespan, minimizing waste.
Swift Charging: Get back on the move faster with rapid recharging capabilities.
Safety First: Z-Batteries prioritizes safety, providing peace of mind for users.
Applications of Z-Batteries include, but not limited to:
Renewable Energy: Store surplus energy from solar panels or wind turbines efficiently.
Electric Vehicles (EVs): Drive farther and charge quicker with E-Energize Z-Batteries.
Grid-Level Solutions: Enhance grid stability and manage peak demand.
Visit E-Energize website to learn more and stay tuned for updates.
Modular electrode configuration of Z-Battery
Participation in TECH 4 TRANSITION Program
Karlsruhe, Germany | 20.11.2023
Dr. Tawheed Hashem has participated in the program: Delegation Visit of the AAST Entrepreneurship Center from Egypt, in which he presented the KIT Innovation Hub's international cooperation. Tech4Transition is a modular offer of the KIT Gründerschmiede, offering innovation spaces where target groups can exchange, network and present their technology-based ideas.
Find out more about the Tech 4 Transition here.
Nomination for NEO2023 Innovation Award
Karlsruhe, Germany | 20.10.2023
The "electronic nose" innovation of Dr. Hashem, Dr. Okur, and Prof. Wöll has been selected among the top 5 nominated innovations for the NEO2023 Innovation Award of the Karlsruhe Technology Region. The award ceremony will take place on Thursday, 30. November 2023 in Karlsruhe, Germany.
Find the program and more info about the event in the link here (in German).
Visiting the German Jordanian University (GJU)
Amman, Jordan | 15.09.2023
During a visit to the German Jordanian University (GJU), Dr. Hashem and Prof. Dr. Gerdes representing the KIT Innovation Hub discussed ways of cooperation with the aim of establishing an innovation center for technology transfer, where all Jordanian universities and research centers can cooperate.
Participation in the 1st Environmental and Climate Investment Forum
Cairo, Egypt | 12.09.2023
Participation of Dr. Tawheed Hashem in the inaugural Environmental and Climate Investment Forum, which was hosted by the Egyptian government. During the event, Dr. Hashem together with Prof. Dr. Gerdes represented the KIT Innovation Hub by signing a Letter of Intent (LoI) as a technology partner to the Egyptian Ministry of Environment. This partnership aims to promote the utilization of innovation for the enhancement of sustainable waste management practices in Egypt.
Learn more about the event in this TV reportage here (in Arabic).
Participation in the 4th ADU-ASU Research Forum 2023
Abu Dhabi University, UAE | 15.5.2023
Participation of Dr. Tawheed Hashed in the 4th ADU-ASU Research Forum 2023 hosted by Abu Dhabi University’s (ADU) College of Engineering (CoE) under the theme of "Concrete in Hot Weather: Building for Tomorrow, Innovations in Sustainable Design and 3D Printing for Smart Construction". Dr. Hashem's talk was entitled: Varied Impacts of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) on Microstructure, Flexural Strength, and Compressive Strength of Gypsum Composites.
Read more about the event here.
BBC: An electronic nose may protect us from spoiled food
BBC for Tech | 21.3.2023
An interview with Dr. Tawheed Hashed by BBC Arabic, in which he introduces the electronic nose device developed in his group together with Dr. Salih Okur. What is this device and what is its role in determining the quality of the food we eat such as meat and milk?
Watch the video for the answers, or follow the link here (in Arabic) and the English dubbing here.
Biotechnology: Enzymes in a Cage
KIT | 2.3.2022
Check out the press release about Dr. Hashem's latest co-authored publication on the incorporation of enzymes into metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which owns high impact on the field of biocatalysis and green chemical industry.
Smelling sensor for the mobile phone: KIT in Karlsruhe develops electronic "nose"
SWR | 1.2.2022
Check out the media coverage on Dr. Hashem's latest invention of the electronic nose, codeveloped with Dr. Salih Okur at IFG, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).
