About Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Dr. Evren Tok, Associate Dean for Community Engagement and Associate Professor at the College of Public Policy, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU), is a prominent figure in public policy research and education. He serves as the regional coordinator for the Executive Master's Program in Development Policies and Practices, a joint offering with the Graduate Institute of Geneva. Dr. Tok's scholarly contributions include co-editing "Policy Making in a Transformative State: The Case of Qatar" and authoring "Global governance and Muslim organizations." His research leadership is evident in his role as director of a QNRF-funded cluster on "SDG Education and Global Citizenship in Qatar" and as Lead Project Investigator for "Localizing Entrepreneurship Education in Qatar." Dr. Tok's innovative approach to education and community engagement is exemplified by his founding of Maker Majlis, a maker space focused on Islam in a global context, which has received multiple awards. His work has been recognized with the Best Research Project Award at HBKU in 2022, underscoring his significant contributions to public policy and sustainable development in Qatar and beyond.

Dr. Abdulfatah Said Mohamed, an Assistant Professor of Global Affairs and Islam at Hamad Bin Khalifa University's College of Islamic Studies, brings a wealth of experience in humanitarian affairs, peace mediation, and sustainable development to his academic role. With a Ph.D. from the University of Exeter and an MSc. in management sciences from the University of Sheffield, Dr. Mohamed's expertise spans academia and practical application. His work as a consultant for the World Humanitarian Summit at the UN Office for Humanitarian Affairs and his collaborations with various international organizations demonstrate his commitment to bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world challenges. Dr. Mohamed's research, exemplified by his co-authored paper on Islamic perspectives on humanitarian principles, contributes significantly to the discourse on the intersection of Islam and global humanitarian efforts. As a Visiting Research Fellow at the Center for Conflict & Humanitarian Studies and through his various roles in peace mediation and policy-making, Dr. Mohamed continues to shape the understanding of Islamic approaches to global affairs and humanitarian action, fostering dialogue between Islamic traditions and contemporary international challenges

Dr. Kimberly Moloney, an Assistant Professor at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, is a distinguished scholar in public administration, focusing on the intersection of international organizations, transnational administration, and global policy, as well as the unique administrative challenges and opportunities faced by small states. Her significant contributions to the field include the book "Who Matters at the World Bank" (Oxford University Press) and co-editing the "Oxford Handbook on Global Policy and Transnational Administration." Dr. Moloney's research bridges the gap between traditional public administration and the complexities of global governance, offering insights into how international organizations shape policy and administration across borders. Her work on small states highlights the often-overlooked administrative dynamics in these contexts, contributing to a more inclusive understanding of public administration. Through her research and publications, Dr. Moloney is expanding the scope of public administration scholarship, addressing crucial questions about governance in an increasingly interconnected world while also giving voice to the administrative realities of smaller nations.

Dr. Mohammed Ghaly, a Professor of Islam & Biomedical Ethics at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in Qatar, is a leading expert in Islamic ethics and its intersection with biomedical sciences. His work spans academic research, teaching, and editorial leadership, focusing on applying Islamic ethical principles to contemporary biomedical challenges. Ghaly has authored several influential books, including "Islam and Disability: Perspectives in Theology and Jurisprudence" and "Islamic Ethics and the Genome Question," contributing significantly to the field of Islamic bioethics. As Lead Principal Investigator on multiple research projects and Editor-In-Chief of the Journal of Islamic Ethics, he plays a crucial role in advancing scholarly discourse in this area. Ghaly's interdisciplinary approach bridges traditional Islamic theology with modern biomedical sciences, providing valuable insights for navigating ethical complexities in an era of rapid scientific advancement. Through his multifaceted work, Dr. Ghaly continues to shape the field of Islamic bioethics, influencing both academic and practical discussions on the ethical implications of biomedical progress within Islamic contexts.

Dr. Luis Martín Pomares is a distinguished Research Scientist at Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI), Hamad Bin Khalifa University, with over 15 years of experience in solar resources assessment and forecasting. Holding a BSc in computer science engineering from the University of Almeria and a PhD in solar radiation forecasting from the Complutense University of Madrid, Dr. Pomares has made significant contributions to the field of solar energy. His career began at Plataforma Solar de Almeria (PSA), where he developed data acquisition systems for PSA's BSRN station. At QEERI, he conducts comprehensive solar resource assessment and prediction tasks crucial for CSP and PV projects. Dr. Pomares' expertise spans solar radiation estimation from satellite data, creation of solar energy maps, analysis of ground measured data, and solar energy forecasting. His academic contributions include nearly 15 journal papers, 40 conference papers, one authored book, and one edited book in the field of solar resources, solidifying his position as a leading expert in solar energy research and application.

Dr. Susan L. Karamanian, Dean of the College of Law at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) in Qatar, is a distinguished figure in international law and legal education. With a career spanning leadership roles at American University of Sharjah and George Washington University Law School, Dr. Karamanian brings extensive expertise to her current position. Her involvement in key legal organizations, including the American Society of International Law and the Washington Foreign Law Society, underscores her influence in the field. Dr. Karamanian's academic contributions extend to lecturing at prestigious institutions worldwide and contributing to the UN Audiovisual Library of International Law. Her expertise encompasses international investment law, human rights, business transactions, and trade law. As a trustee of the Center for American and International Law and a member of influential organizations like the Council on Foreign Relations, Dr. Karamanian plays a pivotal role in shaping global legal discourse. Her work at HBKU is instrumental in advancing legal education in Qatar and the Middle East, while her international engagements continue to contribute significantly to global legal scholarship and practice.

Dr. Zachary R. Calo, Professor of Law at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, is a distinguished legal scholar with expertise spanning law, religion, and human rights. His academic career includes positions as a Research Scholar in Law and Religion at Valparaiso University, Fellow at Emory University's Center for the Study of Law and Religion, Visiting Professor at The Open University (UK), and Adjunct Professor at Notre Dame Law School Australia. Dr. Calo's teaching experience extends to prestigious institutions such as Notre Dame Law School, DePaul University College of Law, and Hangdong International Law School in South Korea. His research, enriched by fellowships at the Brookings Institution and the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, focuses on the intersection of law, religion, human rights, legal theory, and comparative law. Dr. Calo's work explores themes of pluralism, secularism, and the relationship between Christian thought and human rights. With practical experience from his time practicing law at BuckleySandler, LLP in Washington, DC, Dr. Calo brings a unique blend of academic insight and real-world legal knowledge to his scholarship, contributing significantly to global discussions on law and religion across diverse cultural and legal contexts.

Dr. Damilola S. Olawuyi, a Professor and UNESCO Chairholder on Environmental Law and Sustainable Development at Hamad Bin Khalifa University's College of Law, is a distinguished expert in environmental law, energy law, and international petroleum transactions. With a global perspective shaped by his experiences across Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, Dr. Olawuyi has held prestigious positions including visiting professorships at Columbia Law School, Cambridge University, and the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies. His academic prowess is complemented by industry experience as a former international energy lawyer at Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLP. Dr. Olawuyi's prolific research output, comprising nearly 100 publications, has significantly contributed to the fields of petroleum law, energy, and international environmental law. His leadership extends to roles such as Vice Chair of the International Law Association and membership on various executive committees. Recognized as the youngest academic to be awarded Senior Advocate of Nigeria, equivalent to Queen's Counsel, Dr. Olawuyi's work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, making him a key figure in advancing sustainable development discourse in natural resource management and energy transitions, particularly in Africa and the Middle East.

Professor Ilias Bantekas is a distinguished expert in international law, human rights, and arbitration, serving as a Professor of International Law & Arbitration at Hamad Bin Khalifa University's College of Law and as an Adjunct Professor at Georgetown University's Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service. His academic influence extends to the University of London, where he is a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies. Prof. Bantekas has made significant contributions to the field through his major works, including "International Human Rights Law & Practice," "Introduction to International Arbitration," and "International Law," all published by prestigious academic presses. His expertise is further demonstrated through his course on "International Charities in Humanitarian Crises" at HBKU, reflecting his commitment to addressing global humanitarian issues through legal frameworks. Prof. Bantekas's multifaceted career, spanning teaching, research, and authorship, positions him as a leading figure in international law education and scholarship, particularly in the areas of human rights, arbitration, and humanitarian law.

Dr. Dalal Aassouli is an Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator of the Master of Science Program in Islamic Finance at Hamad Bin Khalifa University's College of Islamic Studies. Her expertise spans Islamic finance, sustainable finance, and international markets, with a particular focus on Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Dr. Aassouli's significant contributions to the field include assisting in the establishment of the Islamic Liquidity Management (IILM) Corporation's sukuk program in Malaysia, demonstrating her practical industry experience. As a sought-after speaker at international Islamic finance conferences and a consultant on Islamic and sustainable finance issues, she bridges academic research with real-world applications. While specific course titles are not provided, Dr. Aassouli likely teaches a range of subjects within the Master's program, covering areas such as Islamic financial instruments, sustainable finance practices, and international Islamic finance markets. Her role as Program Coordinator suggests she plays a key part in shaping the curriculum and direction of Islamic finance education at HBKU, preparing students for careers in this rapidly evolving field.

Dr. Nasim Shah Shirazi, a Professor of Economics & Finance at HBKU's College of Islamic Studies, is a distinguished scholar with over 36 years of experience in teaching and research. His expertise spans development economics, public finance, and Islamic finance for social development, reflected in his prolific output of more than 76 publications. Dr. Shirazi's work has garnered international recognition, leading to consulting roles with organizations including the World Bank. His research focuses on crucial areas such as microfinance impact, social exclusion, financial inclusion, and the application of Islamic finance principles to contemporary economic challenges. As a member of editorial boards for prominent Pakistani journals and a key figure in HBKU's Islamic finance programs, Dr. Shirazi plays a vital role in shaping academic discourse and policy in Islamic economics. His interdisciplinary approach, combining economics, finance, and Islamic studies, contributes significantly to addressing social and development issues through innovative financial solutions.

Dr. Esmat Zaidan, an Associate Professor at the College of Public Policy, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, brings a wealth of experience from her work with international organizations like the World Bank, NORAD, and UNDP to her academic role. Her research spans social development, cultural planning, sustainable cities, community-based policies, energy transition, and the interplay between technology and society in smart transformations. Dr. Zaidan's interdisciplinary approach integrates cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Geographic Information Systems, and spatial statistics into policy analysis and development. Her recent work, published in Frontiers in Energy Research, proposes a strategic knowledge-based framework for smart energy transition in existing urban communities, showcasing her commitment to practical, innovative solutions for sustainable urban development. Through her research and teaching, Dr. Zaidan contributes significantly to the understanding and implementation of smart, sustainable urban policies, bridging academic insights with real-world applications in the rapidly evolving landscape of public policy and urban planning.

Dr. Jennifer Bruder, Associate Dean and Professor at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, is a multifaceted expert in cognitive psychology, environmental psychology, and neurodevelopmental disorders. With a Ph.D. in developmental neuro-cognitive psychology from the University of Munich, Dr. Bruder's research spans two distinct areas: neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, dyslexia, ADHD, and dyscalculia, and environmental and sustainable psychology in Qatar and the Gulf region. Her work on dyslexia, published in Psychophysiology, revealed abnormal native language representations in children with the condition. At Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Dr. Bruder teaches courses related to cognition, neurobiology, and research methods, contributing to the education of future psychologists and researchers. Her dual focus on neurodevelopmental disorders and environmental psychology uniquely positions her to address both individual cognitive challenges and broader societal issues related to sustainability in the Gulf region, making her a valuable asset to both the academic community and regional development initiatives.

Dr. Talar Sahsuvaroglu is a Sustainability and Environmental Expert with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy. Since 2013, she has managed the sustainability and environmental requirements for stadiums built for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™, and led the development and implementation of both the Host Country and joint FIFA-SC-LOC Sustainability Strategies. Her expertise includes environmental management, air quality, climate change, and waste management, with prior consulting roles for the World Bank and governments. She was also a Lecturer at the University of Toronto and holds a PhD from McMaster University focused on air pollution exposure and health impacts. Dr. Sahsuvaroglu has peer-reviewed publications, conference experience, and is committed to community development.

José Retana leads sustainability for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, ensuring lasting impact on rights, economy, and environment across all stages.

Alex Charles drives long-term economic impact from FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, merging real estate expertise and sustainability in global sports.