In the spirit of mutual understanding
During just the three years of her PhD studies Safya Elsharkawy demonstrated unique academic and research achievements, showing both her engagement and her specialist knowledge.
Safya is a PhD student at the Faculty of Non-Ferrous Metals of the AGH University of Kraków. During just the three years of her PhD studies she demonstrated unique academic and research achievements, showing both her engagement and her specialist knowledge. She actively engages in activities supporting the international scientific community, presenting her research at international and local conferences. Her research focuses on electrocatalysis and advanced materials for hydrogen production.
She published ten scientific articles in prestigious periodicals, including “Materials Today,” “International Journal of Hydrogen Energy,” and “Archives of Civil and Mechanical Engineering.”
Safya was also successful in obtaining financing for her research. She received a grant from the IDUB programme for her research project titled “Magnetic Field-Assisted Electrodeposition of Nickel and Nickel-Iron Alloys for Water Splitting Applications.” The project is an example of her ability to conduct innovative research in materials science and sustainable energy. She also received the NAWA STER scholarship.
Apart from her academic achievements, Safya demonstrates exemplary communication and leadership skills, taking up various social and community activities. She wrote and published in “Materials Today” a long article titled “Recent Advances in Green Nanoparticles in Energy and Biological Applications,” in which she managed a team of Egyptian students as a long-distance author. It showcases her ability to be an effective mentor and to conduct joint research projects.
She regularly helps Egyptian students in adjusting to life in Poland and obtaining scholarships, providing valuable tips to make it easier for them to go to study abroad. She also organises weekly meetings during which she teaches students how to take up research work, apply for scholarships and work to achieve academic and professional success.
“Safya participates in monthly student meetings, bringing input into the discussion on academic work and supporting cooperation with foreign students. What is more, in her student hall she interacts with students from various backgrounds, sharing her academic insights and studying cultural differences in order to promote the spirit of mutual understanding,” says Dr. Hab. Eng. Remigiusz Kowalik, vice-dean of the AGH Faculty of Non-Ferrous Metals, who recommended the candidate. “On top of that, she co-created with other Egyptian students the ‘URS Mentorship Program’ in order to combine people interested in research. The platform serves as a resource centre, supporting the interest in joint academic projects and inspiring young scientists.”