Dr Muhammad Muddasar announced as winner of the 2025 Kathleen Lonsdale RIA Chemistry Prize

The Royal Irish Academy (RIA) has named Dr. Muhammad Muddasar from the University of Limerick (UL) as the recipient of the 2025 Kathleen Lonsdale RIA Chemistry Prize. 

The Kathleen Lonsdale RIA Chemistry Prize is an esteemed award which is presented annually to recognise the most outstanding Irish PhD thesis in the chemical sciences, as detailed in a 1,000-word essay. The prize commemorates Kathleen Lonsdale, the renowned Irish x-ray crystallographer born in Newbridge, County Kildare, on January 28, 1903. 

Dr. Muddasar's PhD thesis explores the use of chemistry to address energy challenges, focusing on the development of lignin-based membranes and porous carbons for energy storage and waste heat harvesting. Lignin, a biopolymer derived from plant biomass, is a byproduct of the pulp and paper industries. 

Dr. Muddasar's research has demonstrated enhanced thermoelectric performance, potentially enabling the creation of more compact, lighter, and cost-effective energy capture and storage devices, marking a significant advancement in sustainable energy solutions

Originally from Pakistan, Muhammad Muddasar's academic background includes a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master's degree in Energy Systems Engineering. His research interests span sustainable materials, bioenergy, energy storage, and biofuels. 

Muddasar won the UL 3-Minute Thesis competition during Research Week 2024 and went on to further success at the Vitae 3-Minute Thesis Final in October 2024, and at the IUA 3-Minute Thesis National Final in Dublin during November 2024. 

Dr. Muddasar completed his PhD at the University of Limerick in 2024

You can read about Dr Muhammad Muddasar success at: 

Dr Muhammad Muddasar announced as winner of the 2025 Kathleen Lonsdale RIA Chemistry Prize