Annual Report 2025

DEAN’S FOREWORD

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

It is a true honor to address you as the Dean of the College of Science. I am grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me over the past year, and I carry this responsibility with deep commitment.

I would also like to sincerely thank my predecessors for their outstanding leadership. Thanks to their efforts, our college has grown and thrived, and I am privileged to build on their legacy. As we move forward, my vision for our college stands firmly on three pillars: academic excellence, community engagement, and innovation.

Academic Excellence: We will continue to create a vibrant, interactive learning environment where students are challenged to reach their highest potential. We’ll regularly evaluate and enhance our programs to meet the needs of a rapidly changing world, ensuring our students develop both academic knowledge and practical skills through active, hands-on learning opportunities. We aim to prepare graduates who are not only well-educated but also well-equipped for the future.

Community Engagement: We will strengthen our role beyond the classroom. Our college is not just an academic institution—it’s part of a larger community. We will build strong partnerships with local organizations, government entities, industry leaders, and our alumni. Through service learning, outreach programs, and volunteer initiatives, we will ensure our students and faculty are making meaningful contributions to society.

Innovation: We are committed to fostering a culture of creativity and experimentation. We will create an environment where new ideas are encouraged, and bold thinking is the norm. Through pioneering research and innovative problem-solving, we will position our college as a leader in addressing real-world challenges. These pillars are not just goals—they are the foundation for everything we do. Together, we will empower our students, inspire our faculty, and create a lasting positive impact on our society.

I deeply appreciate the dedication, hard work, and collaborative spirit of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and trusted partners. Your efforts are the reason we have come this far, and I am confident that with your continued support, we will reach even greater heights. Thank you for your commitment to our college and to our shared mission.

Dr. Talal Al Hosni
CollegeofScience,Dean

Dean’s Office Staff

Ms. RayaAl-Maawali
Head of Coordination Team

Ms. Siham Al-Shiyadi Coordinator

Ms. Shorooq Al-Busaidi Coordinator

College Administration Staff

Mr. Ibrahim Al-Saifi Administrative Director

Ms. Rahma Al Harrasi Assistant Director

Ms. Noora Al-Ghafri
Clerk

Mr. Issa Al-Hinai

Clerk

Mr. Haitham Awlad-Thani Messenger

Mr. Nabeel Al Abri Messenger

Mr. Sultan Al-Amri (Photocopying Office)

Mr. Mazin Al Harthi Bookstore

College Superintendent

Ms. Fadhila Al Mabsali

ASSISTANT DEAN’S OFFICE FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES

Office Staff

Abdullah Hassan Al Hamadani
(Associate Professor)
AssistantDean (UGS)
(PhD, Case Western
Reserve
University, USA)

Maladh Al-Yousfi
Student AffairsSpecialist

Fatma Al-Farsi
Clerk

Contacts
Mailing Address
Sultan QaboosUniversity
College of Science
Assistant Dean Office for
Undergraduate Studies
PO Box: 36, Postal Code: 123
Al-Khoudh
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman

Telephone & Fax:

Tel. Number: (+968) 24141403,
24142241, 24141402
Email: [email protected]

Website:

http://www.squ.edu.om/
science/About/Assistant
s-Deans/Assistant-
Dean-for-
Undergraduate-studies

Office Overview

The Office of the Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Studies plays
a pivotal role in fostering student success and enriching their
learning experience from the day of admission to the time of
graduation. One of its primary functions is to deliver essential
services to both students and faculty members, catering to the
academic and professional requirements of SQU students,
including those enrolled in College of Science courses.

Its array of responsibilities is comprehensive, ranging from
overseeing admission, registration, and new student orientation to
managing students’ major selections, advancing curriculum design
and development, and supervising the establishment and review of
degree and minor programs. Furthermore, the office aids in
facilitating accreditation processes of college’s degree programs,
assisting with college courses scheduling and mid- semester
examinations, overseeing academic advising within the College,
and offering counselling and support to students on
probation. The ADUGS office maintains
collaborative relationships with counterparts in other SQU
colleges and the Deanship of Admissions and Registration.

These tasks are efficiently executed with the support of college
committees such as the College Curriculum Committee,
Timetabling Committee, Academic Advising Committee, and
the Choice-of-Major Committee. Each committee includes a
representative from every department within the college, serving
as a crucial liaison between the ADUGS office and their
respective department concerning all undergraduate academic
matters.

TEACHING AND LEARNING

The College has continued to maintain a high standard and rigorous teaching and assessment scheme. In 2025, 496 undergraduate students were admitted to the college bringing the total number of enrolled science students to 2743.

UNDERGRADUATE TEACHING SUMMARY

The total number of registrations per semester has exceeded fourteen thousands in both Spring and Fall 2025.

MAJORS AND MINORS

Students in the College of Science are able to select from a choice of 12 Majors. Additionally, 13 Minors are available to Science students.

MAJORS

The available majors in the College of Science are listed below:

The number of students in each of these majors by the end of 2025 are summarized in the left chart while the right chart illustrates the ratio between the majored and non-majored students.

MINORS

The possible minors for science students are listed below:

^* The Minor in Business is offered by the College of Economics and Political Science, and the Minor in Soil & Water Sciences is offered by the College of Agricultural and Marine Sciences.

DEGREE PLANS

New courses developed in the departments were discussed and approved, and existing courses were reviewed and modified when necessary. Two new minors have been proposed and are currently undergoing review and approval at the college level. Upon approval by the Undergraduate Studies Committee, these minors will become active.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

There are 23 international students registered for undergraduate courses in the College of Science.

DEAN’S LIST

Among all the responsibilities of the Office of the Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Studies, overseeing the ceremony honoring students named on the Dean’s List brings me the greatest satisfaction. My sincere congratulations to the 206 students in Spring 2025 and 198 students in Fall 2024 who have earned a place on the Dean’s List.

UNIVERSITY DAY AWARDS – COLLEGE OF SCIENCE BEST STUDENTS 2024

Three graduating students received the Best Student Award:

UNIVERSITY DAY AWARDS – COLLEGE OF SCIENCE BEST TEACHERS 2024

Four faculty members were awarded the Best-Teacher Award:

ADVISING

The College faculty continued to provide valuable support to students in Science and Science & Mathematics Education through academic advising. In total 161 faculty served as advisors for undergraduate students. This activity was coordinated by the Office of the Assistant Dean. It was an important part of our academic culture and critical for students, especially those in the early years of study.

GRADUATES

396 College of Science students received their BSc Degree during the Graduation ceremony in Fall 2025.

^∗ Some advisors are assigned both major and pre-major students as their advisees.

OFFICE OF THE ASSISTANT DEAN FOR TRAINING & COMMUNITY SERVICE

Tariq Mohiuddin Ghulam
Assistant Deanfor Trainingand
Community Service
Professor, Physics Department

Fathiya Al-Hamadani
Clerk

Abdullah Al-Balushi
Training Specialist (B)

Contacts
Mailing Address
Sultan Qaboos University
College of Science
Assistant Dean Office for Training
and Community Services
PO Box: 36, PC: 123 Al-Khoudh
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
Telephone & Fax:
Tel Number: (+968) 24142278
Fax Number: (+968) 24413415
Email: [email protected]
(Fathiya Al-Hamadani)
Website:

http://www.squ.edu.om/science/Traini
ng-Community-Service

Office Overview

The Office of the Assistant Dean for Training and Community Services
(ADTCS) facilitates staff and student training, community services, and
student activities in the College of Science. My administrative team
consists of Mr. Abdullah Al-Balushi (Training Specialist (B)) and Ms.
Fathyia Al-Hamadani (clerk) who play a very crucial role in
coordinating all activities and services offered by the office. The office
of ADTCS is supported by committees for each activity consisting of a
representative from each department or unit in the college. The
representatives serve as focal points, links in the departments and units,
and liaise all matters related to the staff and student training, student
activities, short courses, workshops, and other community services.

ADTCS COMMITTEES

ADTCS tasks are administered and coordinated via a number of committees at the college level. Each committee includes representatives from all academic departments in the college and/or the college’s administrative units. The committees are appointed by the College Board every academic year. This section lists the committees and their members for the academic year 2024/2025.

HIGHLIGHTS

The year 2025 witnessed several high-impact activities at the college, the Office of the ADTCS:

• Organized the College of Science Sports Day, along with accompanying morning activities, on February 10, 2025, fostering student engagement and campus spirit.
• Inaugurated the Celestron 800 EdgeHD Telescope, supported by Oman LNG, on February 18, 2025, enhancing the college’s astronomical research and observational capabilities.
• Held the Annual Iftar for College of Science Staff on March 10, 2025, strengthening collegial relations and community bonds.
• Launched the 21st Scientific Festival “Beyond Deeper” from April 12–16, 2025, showcasing innovative student projects and scientific initiatives.
• Initiated the Blood Donation Campaign on September 9, 2025, promoting social responsibility and community service.
• Organized the Freshmen Orientation Reception (Cohort 40) on September 10, 2025, welcoming new students and introducing them to the college environment.
• Launched the “Leadership in Student Activities” Program from September 14–17, 2025, aimed at developing leadership and innovation skills among student activity leaders.
• Coordinated Student Participation in the Majors Exhibition, in collaboration with the seven academic departments, from October 6–8, 2025, guiding students in academic and career pathway exploration.
• Held an Student Forum with the Dean on October 15, 2025, providing a platform to discuss students’ challenges and gather constructive suggestions.

• Organized the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Workshop, in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA), on October 14, 2025, supporting entrepreneurial thinking and startup development.
• Conducted the “Smart Time Management” Workshop, delivered by Dr. Lamya Al Haj, on November 4, 2025, equipping students with practical productivity strategies.
• Organized the “Your First Step Toward a Promising Investment” Workshop, in collaboration with Bank Muscat, on November 12, 2025, raising awareness of financial literacy and investment fundamentals.
• Celebrated Oman National Day on November 20, 2025, reinforcing national pride and cultural identity.

• Signed a Agreement with bp to support graduation projects at the College of Science, strengthening academia–industry collaboration.

STAFF TRAINING

The Centre of Human Resources Development provided several opportunities for staff members to advance their knowledge and skills through in-house and external training programs:

• A total of 53 college staff members received training during 2025. Among them, 20 staff members attended virtual (online) training programs, while 3 staff members received training abroad in Finland, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates.

STUDENT TRAINING

The essence of summer training or industrial placement is to apply acquired scientific knowledge to everyday practical experiences. Not only does this exercise equip students with a new set of skills but it also introduces them to real-life work conditions and maximises opportunities on the job market. Student training is a compulsory component in some degree programmes such as, applied chemistry, computer science and medical physics, necessitating the involvement of the Student Training Committee to seek out training opportunities that best meet the stipulated degree requirements. Students in other degree programs usually make their own initiatives to secure training opportunities.
The chart below shows a summary of training opportunities for students during 2024/2025. The places providing the largest numbers of training opportunities to our students were: Royal Hospital, Food quality and safety center, Metal Engineering, Halibrton, Rihal, Securado and various government institutions.

EIDAAD STUDENT TRAINING PROGRAM

Eidaad is a national program to allow students to train for a period of one full academic year in the industry or other enterprises. The student is then required to return to SQU and complete his or her degree. In 2025, 13 students from the college were accepted in the program.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

• The College provided training for 23 students from other higher education institutions.
• The College facilitated 19 school visits to different departments.
• The office cooperated with the college administration in organizing the Sports Day, which aims to encourage students and staff to be active and healthy and also bring them together in a informal setting
• The Student Activities Group at the College of Science organized an event to welcome new students admitted to the university.
• The college, represented by the student activities group, celebrated the National Day. The celebration included decorating the college with the flags of the Sultanate and inviting restaurants, cafes, and home projects to participate in the event.
• The student activities group in the college organized a blood donation campaign in cooperation with the University Blood Bank.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES & ACHIEVEMENTS

The College’s Student Society (CSSS) and the Departmental Student Groups provide a platform to demonstrate everyday science and provide an outlet to have fun and reach out to the community. Activities are organized by student committees and include workshops, seminars, exhibitions, and competitions. The student group leaders in the academic year 2024/2025 are:

Science Society RashidALMamari	Chemistry Group Manal ALSyiabi
Computer Science Group ALbasil ALRawahi	EarthScienceGroup Sara AL Saidi
Mathematics Group Wasan Al Wahaibi	PhysicsGroup

Total number of activities in 2025:

The main activities in the year 2024/2025 were:

• The 21^th Science Festival: held during the period 12-16/April/2025.

• Kids Science Activities

• Other Main Activities

ASSISTANT DEAN’S OFFICE FOR UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES Office Staff

Aliya Al Ansari
AssociateProf.,Assistant Dean for

Postgraduate studies and Research

Ibrahim Al Abri
Clerk

Aisha Al Balushi
Clerk

Contacts
Mailing Address
Sultan Qaboos University
College of Science
Assistant Dean Officefor Postgraduate
Studies
PO Box: 36, PostalCode: 123, Al-Khoudh
Muscat, SultanateofOman
Telephone & Fax:

Tel.Number:(+968)24141475, 24142268,
24141470
Email: [email protected]

Website:

https://www.squ.edu.om/science/A
bout/Assistants-Deans/Assistant-
Dean-for-Postgraduate-Research

Office Overview

The office of ADPSR acts as the focal point between the College
of Science with both the Deanship of Research and the Deanship
of postgraduate studies. Our mission is to develop strategies to
attract research funding with parties outside SQU such as industry,
government. Etc to develop collaborations with researchers in CoS
regional and internationally. Our office offers all the support
needed for researchers and try to retrieve the research spirit among
staff and postgraduate students.

The College currently offers seven PhD programs in
chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, Earth Science, Biology,
Statistics and Mathematics. The CoS also offer MSc programs in
Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Computer Science, Data Science &
Machine Learning, Stats, Petroleum Geophysics,
Pure Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Environmental
Sciences. These programs are regularly reviewed and some of them
have received accreditation from international institutions.

Our office monitor with the help of program coordinators in each
department, the study and research progression of all postgraduate
students and offer assistance and advices. Our postgraduate
students have a reputation for excellence in higher scientific
education.

2025

RESEARCH GRANTS HIGHLIGHTS

In 2025, research funding saw a significant increase, with 86 projects receiving 431,517 OMR, compared to 65 projects funded by about 400,00 OMR in 2024. The primary sources of funding include Research Council strategic grants (TRC), internal grants (IG), and Collaborative research. Seven postgraduate projects and Eight final-year projects were supported by the deanship of research and three were supported by TRC.

PUBLICATION HIGHLIGHTS

The College commitment to academic excellence and international recognition is evident in the higher conference presentations/proceedings (45), books (3) book chapters (8), and refereed journal articles (276). Notably, the Department of Physics and Chemistry led with 72 and 54 scientific publications, followed by the Department of Biology and Mathematics.

POSTGRADUATES HIGHLIGHTS

In 2025, 101 postgraduate students were admitted across various departments and programs, as detailed in the table below. This year, 21 MSc and 9 PhD students successfully graduated from the College.

Biology Department

OVERVIEW

The Biology Department was established in 1986 and is considered one of the College of Science's pioneering departments. Initially, it offered a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Biology. Today, the Department offers two BSc programs: BSc in Biotechnology and BSc in Environmental Biology. At the postgraduate level, the Department offers two Master of Science (MSc) programs —MSc in Biology and MSc in Environmental Sciences—and a PhD program in Biology. In addition to teaching undergraduate and graduate students, the Department provides service courses to students from the Colleges of Agriculture, Education, and Medicine. It remains at the forefront of biological research in the Sultanate.

The Biology Department offers a range of courses, from basic to applied sciences, that fulfill the requirements of students in the College of Science and other colleges. The curriculum is designed to provide knowledge, teach students how to design, conduct, and interpret scientific research, and encourage them to think critically and ethically about biological research and its social impact. The curriculum prepares students to enter their profession and pursue higher studies. The teaching and research labs are well-equipped, and a reasonable number of students are pursuing graduate and postgraduate studies. The Biology Department is committed to teaching modern biological sciences and conducting high-quality research. The staff are active in teaching and research, and many have funded projects supported by various organizations. The faculty members and supporting technical staff are trained in multiple disciplines of biology, with an emphasis on experimental and environmental biology.

https://www.squ.edu.om/science/Departments/Biology

ADMINISTRATION DUTIES

Members of the Departmental Main Committees

HoD Office

Raeid Abed
Professor,HoD
(PhD,Bremen,Germany)

Fatema Al Jabri
Coordinator

Balaqis Al Fazari
Coordinator

Staff-Student Liaison

Prof. Raeid Abed

Dr. Buthaina Al Shueili

Dr. Khalsa Al-Husaini

Computer User/ Website

Dr. Adnan Tahir

Dr. Hamada Ali

Ms. Fatema Al Jabri

Operational Strategic Plan

Implementation

Prof. Raeid Abed

Dr. Aisha Al Khayat Al Shehi

Student training

committee

Prof. Raeid Abed

Dr. Khalsa Al Husaini

Dr. Buthaina Al Shueili

Department and College

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Dr. Adnan Tahir conducted a two-day (1-2 Oct 2025) workshop on molecular biology techniques: A hands-on workshop on DNA extraction, PCR, and sequence analysis in the Department of Soils, Water, and Agricultural Engineering, College of Agriculture and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University.
• Dr. Erika Cuellar Soto delivered a plenary session on grassroots conservation outcomes at the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS) in June 2025, held in Kuching, Sarawak.
• Dr. Erika Cuellar Soto participated in the Xposure Festival in Sharjah and delivered a presentation to the National Geographic MENA team in Dubai.
• Mrs. Kamla Al-Rawahi and Mrs. Manal Al-Falahi organized a workshop on the maintenance of laboratory instruments on October 29, 2025, presented by Eng. Omar Al- Zakuani for college technicians on equipment inspection and minor repairs.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj delivered a talk about active learning at Nizwa University, May 2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj delivered 3 large-scale sessions for the youth empowerment program “Jalasat Mulhimoon” held in Muscat, Sohar, and Salalah, which attracted 1000’s of Omani youth, April, 2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj, patron of the honoring ceremony for outstanding graduates of Awalem Foundation, with a motivational speech — 27 September 2025.
• Dr. Sedky Hassan conducted a workshop on “Mastering Scopus: Database Navigation & Metrics for Research Success” in the College of Arts and Social Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University (October 28/2025).
• Prof. Sivakumar Nallusamy organized the 3rd Biotechnology and Conservation Forum, focused on Exploring the World of Extremophilic Microorganisms, held on February 16– 17, 2025.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

• Dr. Hamada Elsayed Ali was awarded Erasmus+ KA171 staff mobility grant at the University of Genoa, Italy from 23 to 30/06/2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj was recognized and honored for her impactful participation in the “Rawa” volunteer initiative, where her presence and words left a positive and lasting impression on 16 September 2025.
• Dr. Michael Barry was recognized as one of the top 2% most influential scientists worldwide in the 2025 list of Stanford University, USA.
• Prof. Mahmoud Yaish was recognized among the top 0.05% most influential scientists globally and ranked 2nd worldwide for date palm research in the 2025 ScholarGPS (USA) ranking.
• Prof. Mahmoud Yaish was recognized as one of the top 2% most influential scientists worldwide in the 2025 list of Stanford University, USA.
• Prof. Raeid Abed was recognized as one of the top 2% most influential scientists worldwide in the 2025 list of Stanford University, USA.

• Dr. Sedky Hassan was awarded the Best Researcher Award by Sultan Qaboos University during SQU University Day 2025.
• Dr. Sirin Adham received the best teaching award by Sultan Qaboos University during SQU University Day 2025.
• Prof. Sivakumar Nallusamy was recognized as one of the top 2% most influential scientists worldwide in the 2025 list of Stanford University, USA.

New APPOINTMENTS

• Mr. Ahmed Al Rawahi(MSc.Biology, SQU, 2018) - Lecturer
• Mr. Mahmood Al Hinai (MSc.Biology, Imperial College of London, UK) - Lecturer
• Ms. Haifa Al Sabbagh (BSc Biotechnology, SQU, Oman, 2023) - Demonstrator.
• Ms. Ru’ya Al-Rajh (BScBiotechnology, SQU, Oman, 2024) - Demonstrator.

SEMINARS/ WORKSHOPS

• Dr. Antoine Leduc has participated in the Red List of Ecosystems (RLE) Validation Workshop held at NYU Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala ACCESS Center, organized in partnership with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the Mideast Coral Reef Society, November, 2025.
• Antoine Leduc has participated in the workshop on Underwater Gliders of the Sea of Oman, held by SQU’s Department of Marine Science and Fisheries in February 2025.
• Dr. Erika Cuellar Soto was invited to develop and lead a workshop on Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Resilience as part of the Rainforest Youth Summit (RAYS), held in Kuching, Sarawak, June 2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj delivered a life skills workshop for OQ Finance, February 2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj has been invited to deliver a workshop at UTAS on transforming science education using active learning and virtual reality (VR), October 2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj has been nominated to participate in the 6th Shariah Forum and to present a working paper on the topic “success factors in professional and personal lives”, November 2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj held a workshop on smart time management tools from planning to achievement, at the College of Science, Sultan Qaboos University. November 2025.
• Dr. Lamya Al Haj participated as a speaker and was honored at the Institutional Innovation and Creativity Forum within Oman Vision 2040, October, 2025.
• Prof. Mahmoud Yaish delivered a scientific presentation on his work on the use of beneficial microbes in agriculture at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia, November 2025.
• Prof. Raeid Abed delivered a presentation at Strasbourg University, France, June 2025.
• Prof. Raeid Abed delivered an invited speaker presentation at the ISME-Africa conference in Morocco, December 2025.

• Dr. Sedky Hassan organized a workshop on Aspergillus identification and its role in food contamination
• Dr. Sirin Adham conducted a cancer research workshop at SQU for the American International School of Muscat (TAISM) students, April 2025.
• Dr. Sirin Adham gave a talk at the Terry Fox event for research donation collections at the American International School of Muscat (TAISM), December 2025.

VISITING CONSULTANTS & PART-TIME INSTRUCTORS

The Department received the following academic staff as Visiting Consultants:

Spring 2025:

• Dr. Karthika Sangilidurai ,PhD (Environmental Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, India, 2024).
• Dr. Samiya Al-Jaaidi ,PhD(Biological Sciences, University of New England, Australia, 2008).
• Ms. Yaqeen AL Jabri, BSc(Biotechnology 2025, SQU).

Fall 2025:

• Dr. Karthika Sangilidurai ,PhD (Environmental Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University,India,2024).
• Dr.Samiya Al-Jaaidi, PhD (Biological Sciences, University of New England, Australia, 2008).

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

• Dr. Adnan Tahir constructed a scientific collaboration with Dr. Zeeshan Ali, College of Food Science and Technology, Bohai University, to explore the therapeutic effects of food-derived compounds.
• Prof. Mahmoud Yaish established a scientific collaboration with the University of Waterloo, Canada, Qatar University, and the Max-Planck-Institute for Chemical Ecology, Germany, to study plant microbiota and biofertilizer development.
• Prof. Mahmoud Yaish hosted a scientific visit to his laboratory by Dr. Axel Mithöfer, Max-Planck-Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany.
• Dr. Sedky Hassan constructed a scientific collaboration with Prof. Elsayed Salama, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, China, to investigate the potential of microorganisms in biofuel production and bioelectricity generation.

ACADEMIC PROMOTION

• Dr. Erika Cuellar Soto waspromoted to the Associate Professor rank in 2025.
• Prof. Sivakumar Nallusamy was promoted to a full Professor rank in 2025.

STUDENT TRAINING & INDUSTRY PLACEMENT

Training opportunities for studentsin2025are tabulated below:

EQUIPMENT RECEIVED

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

Department of Chemistry

Overview

TheDepartmentofChemistry, established in 1986, offers a five-year Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and Bachelor of Science degree in Applied Chemistry. The curriculum at the undergraduate level is designed to provide students with deep knowledge, practical skills and a logical approach required to begin their professional career right after graduation. The Department also offers a postgraduate program leading to a Master of Science in Chemistry and a Ph. D. degree in various fields of Chemistry. The research in the department covers many areas such as synthesis and characterization of organometallic and coordination compounds, natural products and organic synthesis, materials science, oil enhancement recovery, thermodynamics, bio-physical chemistry, computational chemistry, microfluidics and nanotechnology, novel fluorogenic liquid crystalline materials and environmental chemistry.

The Department of Chemistry is one of the biggest department in the College of Science with 31 full time highly qualified academic staff with an extensive level of expertise covering a broad range of subject areas. Our staff are active in research, and many of them hold internally and externally funded research projects. The academic staff are also supported by a strong technical team consisting of 18 highly skilled technicians and a research associate. In addition, the department is very well equipped with various high-end instruments. Furthermore, the academic staff have access to instrumental and high performance computational facilities run by several scientific research centers on SQU campus.

Members of the Departmental Main Committees

HoD Office

Dr. Nawal K. Al-Rasbi
HoD
(Ph.D., Shefield, UK)

Nouf Al Lamki
Coordinator
Jawaher Al Badi
Coordinator

Advisory Board

Dr. Nawal Al-Rasbi

Prof.Haider Al-Lawati

Dr. Hamed Al Mamari

BSc Curriculum

Dr. John Husband

Dr. Saleh AlBusafi

Obadah Abdel

Dr.

Rahman

Dr. Usama Al-Shanna

Younis

Prof.

Baqi

Post Graduate

MSc

Studies:

Prof.RaidAbdel-Jalil

Dr.LailaAl- Moqbali

Prof. Wajdi M. Zoghaib

Prof. Rengaraj Selvaraj

HIGHLIGHTS

The Ph.D. in Chemistry program is slated for external reviewing sometime during the year 2026. The Chemistry Department prepared and submitted all relevant documentation to the SQU Quality Assurance office before the end of April, 2025.

The Masters in Chemistry program was audited for accreditation purposes by the German accrediting th th
society ASIIN during the period October 29 – 30 , 2025. The five-member committee expressed their deep satisfaction with the program, its curriculum, the research laboratories and facilities. Accreditation is expected sometime in late spring 2026.

Right to left: Prof. David Di Fuccia (Kessel University, Germany), Miss Maathir Al-Jabri (GU Tech University, Johann Winter (ASIIN), Prof. Gernot Friedrichs (Kiel University, Germany), Dr. Zakiya Al-Azri (PDO), Prof. Wajdi Michel Zoghaib (SQU).

DEPARTING STAFF

Dr. Muna Rashid Al-Mandhari, the longest serving member of the Chemistry Department resigned from her position at the end of the Fall, 2025 semester. After a long and stellar career during which she served as a faculty member, Department Head, Assistant Dean of Science and research supervisor to undergraduate and postgraduate students, Dr. Muna said her farewell and the Department held a farewell lunch in her honor.

Left to right: Dr. Nawal Al-Rasbi, Dr. Muna Al-Mandhari, Prof. Musa Shongwe, Prof. Muhammad Khan, Dr. Obadah Abdul-Rahman, Dr. Arief Wibowo, Dr. Sultan Al-Saadi.

APPOINTMENTS

Dr. Obadah Abdul-Rahman was appointed Assistant Professor of Inorganic Chemistry in September 2025.

Mr. Mazin AL Rashdi, Mr. Sulaiman AL Raqami, Miss Najwa AL Bulushi, and Miss Ebtihal AL Mahdouri were appointed as grade B Technicians during 2025.

PROMOTIONS

SABBATICAL LEAVE

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Prof. El-Said I. El-Shafey

• 2nd position of the National research award for a Non-PhD Holder Category (student Mahmoud Mukhtar Al Safy from Mechanical Engineering, SQU).
• Award of second place for my FYP student Alaa Al-Harthi from Dhofar university competition for undergraduate students’ posters in Oman.

Prof. RengarajSelvaraj

• received the Prestigious ISAS Dr. Athawale Award – 2024 from the Indian Society of Analytical Scientists – Baroda Chapter at the International Analytical Science Congress (IASC – 2025), which was held at The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, INDIA.

Dr. Hamad Al Mamari

• Received “Best ResearcherAward ”. Awarded at the University Day ceremony on 8 May 2025.

Mrs Taiba AL Mahrooqi was awarded the best technician Award during the SQU day celebration.

VISITING CONSULTANTS & PART-TIME INSTRUCTORS

The Department had the following staff as Visiting Consultants or Part Time Instructors:

Spring 2025:

Visiting Consultants:

1. Dr. Iman Al Yahyaii
2. Dr. Fatma Al Rubai
3. Dr. Sinduh Nair
4. Dr. Afaq Tarnatay

Part-Time Instructors:

5. Dr. Reem Al Alawi
6. Dr. Anwaar Al Moqbali

Part-Time Instructors (PhD Students):

7. Said Al Gawi
8. Najat Al Riyami
9. Hafsa Al Rasbi
10. Khadija Al Mamari
11. Kaltham Al Barhi

Fall 2025:

Visiting Consultants:

12. Dr. Reem Al Alawi
13. Dr. Iman Al Yahyaii

Part-Time Instructors:

14. Dr. Anwaar Al Maqbali
15. Dr. Balqees AlSaadi
16. Miss Huda Alsharji

CURRICULUM

Chemistry 2026- 2030

Degree Layout: 6 Credits of Departmental Electives and 1 Credit of Major Electives have been converted to Departmental (2 Cr) and Major (5 Cr) Requirements

Applied Chemistry 2026- 2030

Degree Layout: 6 Credits of Departmental Electives and 1 Credit of Major Electives have been converted to Departmental (2 Cr) and Major (5 Cr) Requirements

Study Plan: Significant changes have been applied to conform to OQF level progression requirements

Categorization: OQF levels formally assigned to all courses. Major Electives grouped by OQF level.

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

The Department of Chemistry has been collaborating with universities abroad from inception. Following is a brief description of the ongoing collaborations faculty members are involved with:

• Prof. Osama Abou-Zied has a standing collaboration with many international researchers from Malaysia (Faisal Khyasudeen and Idayu Zahid, University of Malaya; Fadhilah Aripin, Universiti Teknologi MARA); UK (Alfonso Martinez-Felipe, University of Aberdeen, Scotland); Qatar University (Alaaldin Alkilany); United Arab Emirates University (Mohamed Al-Qenawi).
• Dr. Imran Hasan Syed continues his research collaboration with:
• Dr. Ashanl-ul-Haque at the University of Hail, Saudi Arabia.
• Dr. Mohammad A. Khasawneh, UAE University, United Arab Emirates.
• Dr. Aneela Maalik, COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan.
• Dr. Farman Ahmed, Pakistan Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pakistan
• Prof. Rengaraj Selvaraj has a standing collaboration with:
• Prof. Shankar. M.V, Department of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Yogi Vemana University, Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh.
• Prof. Eveliina Repo, Laboratory of Separation and Purification Technology at Lappeenranta University of Technology, Lappeenranta, Finland in the area of Purification Technology.
• Prof. Majeda Khraisheh, Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, Qatar in the area of separation of Oil and Water.
• Prof. Younghun Kim’s lab at Kwangwoon University, Seoul, South Korea in the area of water and wastewater treatment.
• Dr. Kezhen Qi’s lab at Shenyang Normal University, Shenyang, China in the area of Development of Nanostructured Materials.
• Prof. Bhekie B Mamba, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa in the area of Nanotechnology.
• Dr. Alex T. Kuvarega, Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS), University of South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa in the area of Nanotechnology.
• Prof. El-Said I. El-Shafey
  Has a standing collaboration with Professor Abdul Baqi Reffas and Dr. Sabah Djabir from Mohammed Boudiaf M’sila University, Algeria.

• Prof. Younis Baqi
  Prof. Christa E.Müller and her team from University of Bonn in the area of medicinal chemistry.
• Dr. Jörg D. Hoheiseland his team from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), in the area of oncology.
• Prof. Ahmed Abdulafrom Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, Iraq, in the field of organic synthesis and in-silico study.
• Secured a researchedmobility grant for my international PhD student.
• Hosted my international PhD student from Mustansiriya University, Baghdad, Iraq in my lab.
• Prof. Musa Shongwe’s research on iron (III)-based spin-crossover materials has flourished due in part to collaborative research with Dr. Eckhard Bill of the Max-Planck-Institut für Chemische Energiekonversion, Mülheim an der Ruhr (Germany) on Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetic susceptibility measurements. Prof. Shongwe is also conducting active research with Dr. Craig Robertson of the Department of Chemistry, University of Sheffield (UK) on variable-temperature single-crystal X-ray analyses for both structural characterization and spin-state verification. Dr. Dariusz Matoga of the Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University (Poland) provides invaluable assistance with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements and cyclic voltammetry.
• Prof. Muhammad S. Khan
• Hasastandingcollaboration with Emeritus Prof. Paul R. Raithby FRSC and his team from University of Bath, UK inthe area of structural studies of conjugated organometallic polymers and lanthanide metals-based coordination complexes for opto-electronic applications. Continues
• research collaboration with Prof. Raymond Wong FRSC and his team from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong in the area of conjugated organic and organometallic polymers for solar cell applications. Prof. Khan has also set up new research collaboration with Professor Liang Zhou from the Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences in the area of lanthanide metal complexes for organic light emitting diode (OLED) application.
• Has set up new research collaboration with Dr. Jos D. L. Dutra at the Pople Computational Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, UFS, Brazil in the area of computational studies of lanthanide metals coordination chemistry.

• Dr. Hamad Al Mamari continues international collaborations in the field of C-H bond functionalization with:
  • Professor Todd Marder, Institut für Anorganische Chemie, Julius-Maximilians-Universität, Würzburg, Germany.
  • Professor Eiichi Nakamura, Department of Chemistry, School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan. Department of Chemistry, School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
  • Professor Bogdan Stafane, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Vecna pot 113, SI 1001, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
  • Professor Franc Pozgan, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Vecna pot 113, SI 1001, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
  • Dr Laurean Ilies, Advanced Organic Synthesis Research Team, RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science Bioscience Building, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198 Japan.
    Research collaboration with Professor Michael Hall at Chemistry - School of Natural and
  • Environmental Sciences, University of Newcastle, UK.
• Dr. Usama Alshana continues his research collaborations in the field of sample preparation and greener instrumentation with:
  • Prof. Dr. Nusret Ertaş from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey,
  • Prof. Dr. Mustafa Soylak and his research group from the Faculty of Science, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey,
  • Prof. Dr. Sezgin Bakırdere and his research group from the Faculty of Science, Yıldız Technical University, Istanbul, Turkey,
  • Dr. Jude Caleb, Dr, Mais Al-Nidawi, Dr. Salihu Ismail from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, Nicosia, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
  • Dr. Alshana has initiated collaboration on the field of elemental speciation with Prof. Dr. Ryszard Lobinski from the French National Research Center (CNRS) and Warsaw University of Technology.

• Dr. Arief C. Wibowo established long-term collaborations with the following groups with their specific specialities:
  • Prof. Kang Min Ok, Sogang University, S. Korea (Crystallography-Lab and Synchrotron, NLO)
  • Prof. Stefan Kaskel, TUD, Germany (in-depth MOF properties measurements)
  • Prof. Abdelbaki Benamor, Qatar University (Oil and gas catalytic reactions)
  • Prof. Sèbastien Paul, University of Lille, France (High throughput experiments for catalysts optimization)
  • Dr. Yury Kapitonov, St. Peterburg State University, Russia (In-depth optoelectronic)
• Dr. Petra Galer collaborates with Dr. Primož Šket from the National Institute of Chemistry in Ljubljana on the structural determination of DNA and proteins using NMR spectroscopy. She has continued her research collaboration with Dr. David Sarlah's group, focusing on developing a methodology for the hydroamination of arenes, which has resulted in a publication in a high-impact journal. She collaborates with Dr. Primož Šket from the National Institute of Chemistry in Ljubljana on the structural determination of DNA and proteins using NMR spectroscopy. She continues her research collaboration with Dr. David Sarlah's group, focusing on developing a methodology for the hydroamination of arenes, which has resulted in a publication in a high-impact journal. Additionally, Dr. Galer collaborates with Dr. Romana Cerc Korošec and Dr. Amalija Golobič from the University of Ljubljana. Her work with Dr. Cerc Korošec involves the thermal analysis of novel organic-based fluorescent dyes, while her collaboration with Dr. Golobič has contributed to the characterization of molecular structures in single crystals, leading to a deeper understanding of the mechanism underlying the aggregation-induced emission phenomenon.
• Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmad Rehan continues his research collaborations in the field of nanocomposite materials, polymeric membranes with:
• Dr Adnan Syed University of Cranfield UK.
• Dr Lassad Gazzara, CEDT King Abdul-Aziz University Saudi Arabia
• Professor Dr Muhammad Zahid, University of Agriculture Faisalabad Pakistan.

STUDENT TRAINING & INDUSTRY PLACEMENT

Training opportunities for students in the Summer of 2025 are tabulated below:

NEW EQUIPMENT

Equipment Purchased from Research Budgets

1. Prof. F. Sulaiman – UV-Vis & NIR Spectrometers
2. Prof. Raid Abdel-jalil – Microwave Synthesizer
3. Prof. ElSaid El-Shafey – Tube Furnace
4. Dr. Imran Khan – Potentiostat
5. Dr. Usama Al-Shana – Vortex Mixer, Centrifuge
6. Dr. Arief Wibowo– Furnace
7. Dr. Zulfikar Rehan – Membrane System

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Dr. Nawal Al-Rasbi

• Member of the National Chemistry Committee in the Environment Authority – Government of Oman.
• Published 1^st edition of her book “Fundamental of Chemistry”, SQU Press, 2025.

Dr. Laila Al-Maqbali

• Prepared an employment exam for the Ministry of Education for graduate teachers.
• Prepared a qualification exam for the Ministry of Education for education diploma candidates
• Attended OQF Capacity Building Workshop at The Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance of Education (OAAAQA).

Prof. Emad Khudaish:

• Guiding and sharing expertise for a research group selected by the Innovation Center at SQU to develop new energy source mimicking Li-ions batteries.
• A member of corrosion research team chaired by the DVC of Academic Affairs and Community Services to discussed a way on establishing indoor expertise able to discuss and solve national corrosion aspects.
• Prepared an examination script for selecting candidates applied for technical post at the Chemistry Department - SQU.

Prof. El-Said El-Shafey

• Chair of the SQU Hazmat inspection team
• Chair of the SQU Chemical Inventory Team
• Conducted a workshop for Safety in the laboratories for the technicians of the College of Medicine (30-Oct. 2025)
• Conducted a workshop for a delegation from the Omani Armed Forces on Mass Destruction Weapons (Department of Chemistry), on 16 Oct. 2025.
• Conducted a public lecture for Chemistry Group on Forensic Chemistry (7 April 2025)

Prof. Younis Baqi

• Maintains the advising and supervision of Chemistry and Applied Chemistry students who undergo “Summer Industrial Training” at national, regional or international companies and institutes.
• Maintains the advising and supervision of Chemistry and Applied Chemistry students who undergo “Eidad Internship” in industrial companies.

Prof. Haider Al Lawati:

• Published a popular science book (رحلة عبر العلوم).

Prof. Rengaraj Selvaraj

• Invited Lecture Delivered on 18^th September, 2025 in the topic of “Nexus of Nanotechnology and Solar Energy for Green energy Production and Environmental Remediation” at AICTE Training and Learning (ATAL) Academy for Faculty Development Program on “Rare Earths, Advanced Materials & Critical Minerals” at Government College, Rajahmundry, INDIA.
• Invited Lecture delivered on 10^th July, 2025 in the topic of “Green Energy from Green Materials" at National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, INDIA. (Host: Prof. Anandan Sambadam).
• Invited Lecture delivered on 7^th May, 2025 in the topic of “Nexus of Nanotechnology, and Solar Energy for the production of Hydrogen Fuel and Environmental Remediation” at University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Sohar, Sultanate of Oman.
• Invited Lecture Delivered on 19^th February, 2025 in the topic of “Emerging Nanostructured Materials for Environmental Remediation: A New Era of Oil and water Treatment Technology” at Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, Dohan, Qatar.

Dr. Hamad Al-Mamari

• 26 February 2025. Delivered a workshop/lecture entitled “Organic Chemistry and Life” to the public in coordination with the Centre of Community Service and Continuing Education of the university.
• 3 December 2025. Delivered a workshop/lecture entitled “Green Chemistry and its Role in Preservation of the Environment” to the public in coordination with the Centre of Community Service and Continuing Education of the university.

Dr. Isehaq Al-Nafai

• SQU representative and member of the National Committee for Hazardous Materials Sector, Public

Dr Zulfiqar Ahmed Rehan

• Maintains the advising and supervision of Chemistry and Applied Chemistry students who undergo “Summer Industrial Training” at national, regional companies and institutes.
• Maintains the advising and supervision of Chemistry and Applied Chemistry students who undergo “Eidad Internship” in industrial companies.
• Enhance the industrial engagement with academia by collaborating four new national industries.
• Successful placement of Chemistry graduate in different industries in Oman

Mr. Khaled Al-Maqbali

• Provided technical research support to Dr. Laila AL Shandodi from the University of Technology and Applied Science (UTAS, Rustaq)
• Provided technical consultation of Royal Omani Armed Force officers.
• Supervised V Leather student company from the University of Technology and Applied Science (UTAS, Muscat)

Mrs. Muna AL Balushi

• Social Committee Leadership: Active member of the Social Committee; attended and organized social committee meetings.
• Sports Day Coordination: Played a major role in organizing the University/College Sports Day:
  • Designed the official sports t-shirts for the event.
  • Distributed and supervised organizational tasks for the female students' sports hall.
  • Negotiated competitive pricing for catering.
  • Secured external sponsorship from Muscat Pharmacy to provide energy drinks for the participants.
• Internal Social Welfare: Organized and participated in social events for colleagues, including coordinating wedding gifts and celebrations for staff members.
• Visitor Relations: Participated in receiving and hosting visiting delegations and school groups.

Mr. Issa AL Maktumi

• School Support: Contributed chemical materials to Sulaiman bin Abbad Basic Education School to support their educational needs.
• Educational Outreach: Contributed chemical materials to Zainab bint Abi Salama School.
• Institutional Improvement: Coordinated with "Nabaa Al-Rabea" company to replace the laboratory water tank, ensuring better water quality and adherence to safety standards.
• College Activities: Participated in the College Sports Day events.

Mr. Shareef AL Hashemi

• External Support: Provided technical and technical support for the research laboratory at Nizwa University.
• Governmental Cooperation: Tested samples for two government schools under the Ministry of Education in Muscat.
• Professional Training: Trained specialists from the Biochemistry Department at SQU Hospital on laboratory equipment.
• Regional Cooperation: Visited a medical laboratory under the Qatari Ministry of Health to open doors for technical consultation and cooperation.
• Institutional Support: Presented a technical brief to a delegation from the Ministry of Defense.
• School Outreach: Provided a technical explanation of the Analytical Chemistry laboratory for a private school.
• Revenue Generation: Supported applied analysis in the College of Science for external contracts (valued at 500 OMR).

Mr. Sulaiman bin Ali Al-Raqmi

• Delegation Hosting: Received and toured two delegations: one from a school and another from the Ministry of Defense.
• Scientific Competition Support: Conducted a simulation and explanation of the practical chemistry components for the Junior Science Olympiad 2025.
• Inter-departmental Cooperation: Repaired equipment (GC-MS) for the "Al-Karo" department and the Forage Laboratory to reduce maintenance costs.
• Student Support: Supervised experiments for student companies in the laboratory.
• Technical Expertise: Repaired a Fluorescence Spectrophotometer for a research laboratory.

Mrs. Ahood AL Numani

• Carried the osmosis experiment for the thesis of a student from German University (FYP) of Technology in Oman, and contacted her in order to fix the time and start running the experiments with her and provided the graphite electrodes from the physical department. Helping the student in her thesis practical part to record the quantity of H2 gas and measure the pH, conductivity, TDS.
• Explained the instruments to school students grade 12: pH, conductivity the use and how to operate the pH, conductivity meters and UV-VIS and how to apply them in different field Measure the pH and conductivity for the tap water and student sample and recorded the values.
• Instructed the students from SQU and Arab open University to perform the experiment and provide them with the chemicals and supervise them.
• Trained 16 undergraduate students from different universities on the use of conductivity, pH Meters, the UV and their calibrations and about the preparation of different concentrations and about the safety in the labs

Mrs. Ibtisam Salman Hassan Al-Ajmi

• School Visits: Received several school groups, provided tours of the chemistry laboratories, and performed simple scientific experiments for them.
• International Schools: Received students from the Bangladeshi School.
• Institutional Delegations: Received a delegation from the Medical City, toured the Industrial Chemistry lab, and explained the equipment used.
• Safety Initiatives: Participated in the "Tadarak" initiative to improve safety and quality indicators within the Chemistry Department.

Mrs. Omaima Abdullah Hamad Al-Rashdi

• Training: Trained 8 individuals throughout the year on NMR and CHN equipment, as well as general laboratory preparation.
• Internal Support: Assisted and supervised new female employees with laboratory experiments.
• Efficiency: Reduced costs for elemental analysis consumables by 20% by sourcing through local agents.

Mrs. Tayba Al-Mahrouqi

• Student Training: Trained 6 students during the summer and academic semesters (including students like Heba Al-Ghaoui and Ghada Al-Hashmi).
• Student Employment: Supervised 3 students under the student employment program (Thuraiya, Aziza, and Bayan).
• Technical Innovation: Collaborated with the Glass Workshop to manufacture Magnesium Tubes locally, reducing operational costs and increasing analysis accuracy.

Mr. Mazen bin Ali Al-Rashdi

• Internal Safety Achievement: While his report primarily focuses on internal operations, he led a critical safety project to transfer chemical stocks to a new warehouse in record time during maintenance. This involved strict adherence to international safety standards, classification of hazardous materials, and space optimization to ensure a safe working environment for the department and students.

Mrs. Diana bint Hamad Al-Kayoumi

• Training and Education:While the specific "Community Service" description section was not fully detailed in the snippet,her summary indicates she trained 13 individuals throughout the year, contributing to the professional development of students or new staff members.

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

Department of Computer Science

Overview

The Department of Computer Science at Sultan Qaboos University serves as a vibrant center for research and education, committed to advancing the field of computer science. With a vision to become a leading department in the region and achieve international recognition for excellence, it offers a comprehensive range of programs. These include undergraduate degrees in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, as well as postgraduate MSc programs in Computer Science, Data Science Machine Learning, and a Ph.D. program. Faculty members are deeply involved in both foundational and applied research within renowned research groups, focusing on areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Distributed Computing and Networks, Software Engineering, Web Computing, and Database Systems. Through these research initiatives, the Department addresses critical challenges in the field, fosters innovation, and equips students to make impactful contributions to industry, academia, and society.

Finally, the Department has a number of excellent laboratories with advanced facilities for teaching and research and also shares other facilities within the College and the University.

Members of the Departmental Main Committees

HoD Office

Abderezak Touzene
Professor, HoD

(PhD, Grenoble
University, France))
Ms. Hiba Al-Busaidi
Clerk

Academic Promotion

Prof. Abderezak Touzene*,

Prof. Khaled Day, Prof.

Zuhoor Al-Khanjari, Prof.

Youcef Baghdadi,

Dr. Abdullah Al-Hamdani,

Dr. Abdelhamid

Abdessalem(C)

Advisory Board

Prof. Abderezak

Touzene

Prof. Zuhoor Al-

Khanjari

Ms. Hiba Al-Bus

aidi

Appointment

Prof. Abderezak Touzene*

(C), Dr. Abir Al-Hajri,

Dr. Abdullah Al-

HIGHLIGHTS

The year 2025 witnessed the following:

• TheDepartmenthasproposeda new Minor in AI program. The program was approved by CCC in December 2025.
• The Department has one ongoing HM, one ongoing TRC, four IG, and one CRG.
• The department admitted 9 MSc candidates in CS and 8 bridging
• The department admitted 11 MSc candidates in DSML and 4 bridging
• Two PhD students have successfully defended his PhD thesis and completed requirements for the degree.
• Five MSc students have successfully defended their respective thesis and completed the requirements for their degrees.
• From Deep Learning to Agentic AI Systems Workshop, Dr. Noushath Shaffi 22-24 September 2025

• DCS students (Osama Al-Rawahi, Yusuf Al-Shuaili, Sanad Al-Salmi, and Sumaiya Al-Shamliya) and won top positions in The Second Edition of the Oman Drone Competition Enhanced with Artificial Intelligence.
• DCS Students (Ahmed Al-Gharbi,Mohammed Al-Abriwon, and Ahmed Al-Shamli) and (Qais Al-Badawi
  Osama Al-Hadhrami MohammedAl-Hinai) won respectively the first and second place in the Oman University Programming Competition 2025,which was held at Sultan Qaboos University and featured competition among several teams from universitiesandcolleges across the Sultanate. Twoteamsqualifiedand participatedin The AfricaandArabCollegiateProgrammingChampionship(ACPC2023),whichwasheldin SharimEl-Shaikh, Egypt in the first week of March 2024.
• DCS was the "winningest" department in the GenAI for Higher Education Competition winning first and second place in every category: academic, research, and service. 2025 competition had one category (academic) and DCS secured 2 out of the top 3 positions (out of the 16+ ideas submitted). Aya Alblushi, Maysoon Ambusaidi, Sara AlHarthi and Anas Almandhari. uniFeel, 2025 Spring FYP is now deployed here (https://unifeel.vercel.app/) . EasyOQF is deployed here (https://course-outline-genarator.onrender.com/)

• First Place : Sentiment Analysis for University Student’s Feedback (UniFeed) (Sarah Al Harthi, Maysoon Ambusaidi, Aya Al Balushi, Third Place : - EasyOQF, Fatima AlRaisi, Anas Al-Mandhari
  • Virtual Patient: Habiba El Keraby, Dr. Adhari Abdullah Al-Zaabi
• Riham Jeeballah, an MSc graduate from the Department of Computer Science, supervised by Dr. Hamza ZIDOUM was awarded the Upgrade Fund from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MOHERI). This prestigious award recognizes promising ideas with potential real-world applications and supports the continuation of research and development (R&D).

.

NEW STAFF APPOINTMENTS

• None

LEAVING STAFF

• Dr. Yassine Jamoussi and Dr. Hanaa Al Zadjali

SCHOLARSHIPS & OVERSEAS STUDIES

• The following studentscompleted their PhD degrees in Computer Science in 2025
  • Dr. Faiza Al Harthi,Dr. Iman Al Jassasi
• The following studentscompleted their MSc degrees in 2025:
  • Riham Jeeballah, Haneen Ibrahim, Shihab Al Busaidi, Thuwiba Al Busaidi, Tharaya Al Nabhan supervised by Dr, Hamza ZIDOUM

PROMOTIONS

• None

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

• DCSteamswinfirstplaceandthird place in the Higher Education GenAI 2025 competition held at SQU
  • UniFeel. An aspect-based sentiment analysis app for capturing student sentiment and opinions about courses and teaching Team: Aya AlBulushi, Sara AlHarhti, Maysoon Ambusaidi, and Fatima AlRaisi
    .
  • EasyOQF: an intelligent tool to efficiently and accurately convert course outlines in a format consistent with OQF requirements. Team: Anas Al-Mamari and Fatima Al-Raisi
• Dr. Shadha Al-Amri and Dr. Asma Al-Saidi from the Department of Computer Science on receiving the Best Paper Award for their conference paper presented at the 9th International Conference on Information System Design & Intelligent Applications (ISDIA-2025), held in January 2025 at the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), UAE. The awarded paper, titled "Genetics Inspection Tool: Intelligent Primer Design," is currently under editorial production by Springer-Nature for publication in the Springer Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems (LNNS) Series, which is indexed in Scopus.
• Dr. Noushath Shaffi has been awarded Platinum Tier by NVIDIA under certified instructor program for the delivery of GenAI workshops.
• Riham Jeeballah, an MSc graduate from the Department of Computer Science, supervised by Dr. Hamza ZIDOUM awarded the Upgrade Fund from the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MOHERI). This prestigious award recognizes promising ideas with potential real-world applications and supports the continuation of research and development (R&D).

VISITING CONSULTANTS AND PART-TIME INSTRUCTORS

• Dr. Szillard Vadjda and Dr. Ahmed Sulaimani joined our Department as a Visiting Professor

The Department used the service of ten part-time staff in Spring and Fall 2025 respectively.

• Dr.AMJAD Al Tobi
• Dr. Asma Al-Busaidi
• Dr. Hilal Nasser AlAbdali
• Dr. Asmaa Al-Busaidi
• Dr. Huda Al Amri
• Mr. Ma'moun Awad
• Mr. Saud Al-Oreimi
• Mrs. SOMAIYA AL SHURAIQI ●
  Mr. Yahya Al Riyami
• Dr. Yahya Al Sawafi
  • Dr. Ibrahim Duweib

In addition, there were 25 and 33 student teaching assistants in Spring and Fall 2025 respectively.

CURRICULUM

• The Department has proposed a new Minor in AI program. The program was approved by CCC in December 2025.
• The Department has prepared the CS and AI degree programs for cohorts 2026-2030. They have been approved and submitted to A&R.
• The department has developed a new major elective course on Blockchain Technology and its Applications.
• The department has updated all course outlines based on a revised new template with OQF characteristics.

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

The Department of Computer Science has been collaborating with universities abroad from its inception. Following is a brief description of the ongoing collaborations, where faculty members are involved:

• Dr. AbdulRahman Aal Abdulsalem
  • Collaborates with the Department of Computer Science at Bishop’s University in Canada.
  • Collaborates with the Department of Computer Science at École de Technologie Supérieure in Montreal, Canada.
• Fatima Al-Raisi
  • Collaborates with Qatar Computing Research Institute (QCRI) and Hamad Bin Khalifa University on extending dialectal capabilities of Fanar, the large scale Arabic Multimodal Generative AI Platform Collaborates with a team of researchers affiliated with University of Turin psychology department and SUPSI
  • Switzerland on identifying phenotypes of autism patients from textual clinical notes
• Dr. Hamza Zidoum
  • Collaborates with the Department of IT, Division of Computing Science, Uppsala University.
  • Collaborates with Faculté des Sciences et Techniques Béni Mellal Département Informatique.
• Dr. Yassine Jamoussi
  • Collaborates with RIADI Lab, University of Manouba, Tunisia.
  • Collaborates with IRIT Lab. University of Toulouse, France.
• Prof. Youcef Baghdadi
  • Collaborates with the Center of Research in Informatics (CRI) at University of Paris 1, Pantheon-Sorbonne, France.
  • Collaborates with the department of computer science
• Prof. Abderezak Touzene

• Dr. Faiza Al-Salti
  • Collaborates along with a team from SQU with Dr. Nida ul Habib Bajwa, Saarland University, Germany.
• Dr. Abdelhamid
  • Collaborates with Prof. Mufti Mahmud, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
  • Collaborates with Dr. Yamina Boutiche, Image and Signal Processing Laboratory, Research Center in Industrial Technologies CRTI, Algiers, Algeria
• Dr. Mohammed Kherfi
  • Collaborates with the Machine Intelligence Research Group, Department of Computing and Informatics, Bournemouth University, UK.
  • Collaborates with the Department of Computer Science, Bishop’s University, Canada.
  • Collaborates with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of Quebec in Outaouais, Canada.
  • Collaborates with the College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar.
  • Collaborates with the LAMIA Laboratory, University of Quebec at Trois-Rivières, Canada.
  • Collaborates with LINATI Laboratory, Department of Computer Science and Information Technology, Ouargla University, Algeria.

STUDENT TRAINING & INDUSTRY PLACEMENT

The training opportunities for students in the summer of 2025 are as summarized below:

NEW EQUIPMENT

• Desktop: 140
• Laptop: 5

COMMUNITY SERVICES

Dr. Abir Al Hajri

• Has served as the College of Science Assistant Dean for the Undergraduate Studies
• Has served as a member of the University Undergraduate Studies Committee in charge of reviewing and approving programs and matters related to the undergraduate studies.
• Has served as a member in a committee at university level that was asked to prepare a framework for Academic Integrity and Security.
• Has served as a member of the committee that is responsible for supervising the development of the new student information system in the deanship of admission and registration.
• Has served as a chair of a team at the university level that was asked to study the overlap between courses.
• The team has prepared a procedure to deal with overlapping between courses.
• Has served as a chair of a team at the university level that was asked to review and update the teaching load and overload criteria for SQU faculty members.
• Has served as a member of a national committee with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Higher Education and the Ministry of Labor that worked on developing strategies to increase the nationalization rate in the position of Male teachers.
• Has served as a member of the College of Education Advisory Board.

Dr. Abdelhamid Abdessalem

• Has served as a member of the College of Science Advisory Board.
• Prepared scripts for three videos promoting the newly developed SQU procedures and presented one of them.
• Served as member of The Supervisory Committee of the Partnership between Quality Assurance Units and the Quality Assurance Office
• Served as a member of the SQU committee in charge of writing the SQU Institutional Standards Assessment Application (ISAA) report.
• Reviewed One BSc. and one MSc Programs in AI
• Served as reviewer for Expert Systems with Applications Journal (ESWA)
• Served as reviewer for Neural Computing and Applications Journal (NCAA)
• Served as reviewer for Pattern Recognition Journal (PR).

Prof. Abderezak Touzene

• Served as a member of the editorial board of Journal of Strategic and Defense Studies:https://journalsds.com .
• Served as an Editorial board member for SQU Journal for Science (SQUJS)
• Served as a member of the editorial board International Journal of Software Engineering & Applications (IJSEA).
• Served as a member of the editorial board for Journal of Sensor and Actuator Networks. https://www.mdpi.com/journal/jsan/editors.
• Served as a member of the editorial board for Computer Networks & Communications: International Journal (CNCIJ). http://flyccs.com/jounals/CNCIJ/EditorialBoard.html.
• Served as a member of the editorial board for Journal Telecommunications. http://www.mdpi.com/journal/telecommunications/editors.
• Served as a member of the editorial board for International Journal of Computer & Software Engineering, an international open access journal, Graphy Publications.
• Served as a member of the advisory/editorial board of The World Academy of Research in Science and Engineering (WARSE).
• Served as external reviewer for the new Cyber Security and Digital Forensics, Ministry of Higher Education, Oman.
• Served as member of a SQU committee for establishment of a National CyberSecurity Center in SQU.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Hamdani

• Served as a member of the Board of Trustee in Muscat College.
• Served as a member of the follow-up committee for HM Sultan Qaboos Academic Chairs, Ministry of Higher Education, Muscat, Oman.
• Served as the Chair for the IT Research Group, HM Sultan Qaboos Academic Chairs, Ministry of Higher Education, Muscat, Oman.
• Served as the focal point in the cooperation agreement between SQU and the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technology with cooperation of the Ministry of Education and Omantel to conduct the Oman Code Race competition.
• Served as a member of the College Advisory Board, College of Science.
• Reviewer for Service Oriented Computing and Applications (SOCA) Journal.
• Served as external reviewer for the new Bachelor of Science in Data Science, Ministry of Higher Education, Oman.
• Served as Program External Assessor for three Computing programs (Diploma in Computer Science, BSc in Computer Science and B.Ed. in Computer Science), College of Arts and Sciences, University of Nizwa, Oman.
• Served as an External Examiner for a PhD thesis, Said Al-Barami, Department of Information Studies, College of Arts.
• Served as an External Examiner for an MSc thesis, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering.
• Served as an External Examiner for an MSc thesis, Department of Biology, College of Science.

Dr. Abdulrahman Aal Abdulsalam

• Served as a Master Thesis Examiner for the Department of Petroleum and Chemical Engineering at SQU in December 2023.
• Served as a reviewer for AMIA 2024 Clinical Informatics Conference.
• Invited Speaker for the IEEE Summer School on Natural Language Processing and Computer Vision 2023 at UTAS-Suhar on December, 12 2023.

  th

• Served in the working group for the National Digital Health Strategy Program at the Ministry of Health in October, 19^th 2023.
• Invited speaker at the symposium of New Generations of Artificial Intelligence organized by the Ministry of Transportation and Information Technology in March 2023.
• Invited speaker at the statistics day organized by the department of statistics at SQU on October 19 2023. th

Fatima A Raisi

• Servedon National LLM project Mu’een 2025
• Servedon National BWC Implementation project overseen by Ministry of Defense 2025
• Facilitated AI in Education workshops for OCHS 2026.
• Invited Talk about AI and Society for Omani Socialists Association 2026.
• Serves as a member of SQU team for developing AI Framework and Governance System 2025
• Developed and published an Assessment Analyzer based on the AI Assessment Scale to evaluate robustness of assessment against AI-completion and to promote authentic learning 2025
• Developed and published a Course Similarity and Overlap Calculator 2025
• Developed and published Coding Coach to assist student in learning programming by giving them instant feedback on their code 2025
• Developed and published AI Readiness Assessment Tool for Higher Education 2025
• Developed and published Web-based AI Preparedness Assessment for Organizations 2025
• Developed and published AI Readiness Checklist for Higher Education in Oman 2025
• Developed and published a proposed Framework for AI in Higher Education 2025
• Developed and published a proposed Governance System for AI in Education Education 2025
• Served as a member of SQU taskforce on SQU procedures governing GenAI in teaching and learning approved in 2025
• Developed and performed ML-based categorization of ADHD and ASD data for the child health research lab at SQUH and college of medicine
• Served as a member of SQU taskforce for measuring and analyzing course overlap and similarity, solely developing the software and conducting the quantitative analysis of SQU courses across all colleges including the similarity analysis of over 1.1million course pairs.
• Successfully trained > 800 SQU faculty members and a number of researchers from SQU research centers and a number of SQUH physicians and healthcare professionals on practical use of GenAI in Education with > 280 raining hours

• Proposed, designed and developed a bilingual professional development course for SQU on “Prompt Engineering for Educators” to be offered by CETL in 2026.
• Contributed with the design of 6 courses in the new BSc in AI program in OQF format and reviewed 5 other courses
• Conducted the alignment and benchmarking of the new BSc in AI program against ACM curriculum guidelines
• Served as a facilitator for Empowering Minds summer school organized by the CETL 2024
• Served as a facilitator for AI in Education, Higher Education Management, and Research training program targeting SQU management and leThe Institutional Standards Assessment Applicationadership 2024
• Served as the reviewer for SQU Institutional Standards Assessment Report across all 6 standards 2024.
• Facilitated a workshop on Data for QA Reporting for SQU QA office and ISAA teams 2024.
• Facilitated a training program on AI for Graphics Designer in different public and private sectors 2024
• Invited to wiki Omaniat project and selected among 11 Omani women in different domains to join the initiative
• Invited to speak at the The Third Innovative Arab Women's Forum on “Women's Innovation in the Data Age: Analysis and Challenges” 2024.
• Facilitated a session at the IEEE workshop on generativeAI and its applications December 2024
• Developed and co-organized SQU-wide AI Capacity Building program for Educators (2024-ongoing)
• Collaborates with Agriculture Research Station at SQU to apply AI for tracking of Omani honeybees (ongoing)
• Invited speaker and panelist at the The National Conference on AI in Health Research, Education, and Training held in Sur 2025
• Facilitated a workshop on Generative and Agentic AI for Coders to CIS professionals 2025
• Gave an invited workshop on GenAI in Mathematics Education for the Department of Mathematics 2025

Dr. Hamza Zidoum

• Member of the research team affiliated with the Communication and Information Research Center/Sultan Qaboos University.
• Served as a reviewer for Health Informatics Journal, SAGE Track.
• Served as a reviewer for The International Arab Journal of Information Technology: IAJIT
• Served as a reviewer for Journal of Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence
• Served as a consultant for the Ministry of Higher Education, Directorate General of Private Universities and Colleges. Reviewed a program -Diploma/Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Artificial Intelligence.
• Served as a consultant for the College of Engineering, Assistant Dean for Postgraduate Studies and Research. Reviewed Internal Grant applications.
• Served in editorial board Health Informatics Journal.
• Served as a reviewer for The Journal of Engineering Research, SQU
• Served as a reviewer for The Journal of Network Modeling Analysis in Health Informatics and

Bioinformatics (NHIB)

• Scientific committee for3rd Elsevier InternationalConferenceonMachine Learning and Data Engineering (ICMLDE2024), November 28-29, 2024.ICMLDE
• Served in editorial board for the InternationalJournalofInformationTechnology Research Studies (IJITRS) inaugural issue.
• Deep Science Publishing, Editorial Board, www.deepscienceresearch.com

• Reviewer for international conference on intelligent systems and artificial intelligence applications
• UNESCO International Arabic Language Day. 21 December 2025. “ Empowering Arabic in the Digital Age: The Strategic Role of Artificial IntelligenceEmpowering Arabic in the Digital Age: The Strategic Role of Artificial Intelligence in Translation”. Algerian Embassy in Muscat

Dr. Imran Khan

• Served as an EasyChair coordinator for the International Conference on Computing Research (ICR’24).
• Served as a member of the Data Science group at the International Conference in Computing Research
• Reviewed for journals such as IEEE Access and Knowledge and Information Systems.
• Reviewed the proposed MSc IT degree program (Software Engineering, Computer Science) at Al-Burahmi University College (BUC), Sultanate of Oman.
• Reviewed the proposed BSc in Artificial Intelligence degree program at Al-Burahmi University College (BUC), Sultanate of Oman.
• Reviewed a proposal for the licensing of the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Business Analytics degree program at A’ Sharqiyah University (ASU), Sultanate of Oman.
• Reviewed a proposal for the licensing of the Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics degree program at Muscat College, Sultanate of Oman.

Dr. Yassine Jamoussi

• Served as reviewer for the International Journal of Software Engineering and its applications,
• Served as reviewer for the Journal of Engineering Research
• Served as reviewer for the International Journal of Web Applications and Technology.
• Served as PhD thesis Internal Examiner for SQU.

Prof. Youcef Baghdadi

• Served in editorial board for International Journal of Computer & Their Applications in Technologies (IJCAT)
• Served in editorial board for Journal of Cases in Information Technologies (JCIT)
• Served as a member of the promotion committee of Oman College.
• Served as a member of the promotion committee of Muscat college.

Prof. Zuhoor Al Khanjari

• Participated as a reviewer of 6 academic programs for private colleges and universities in Oman. This is done in collaboration with MoHERI.
• Participated as a member in the National Prize of Research. This is done in collaboration with MoHERI.
• Reviewed manuscript for Asian Journal of Research in Computer Science.
• Served in reviewing papers for the Supercomputing Journal.
• Reviewed several papers for the Neural Computing and Applications (NCAA) Journal.
• Reviewed papers for the Frontiers in Computer Science - Software.
• Coordinated the DCS Students Summer Internship.

Dr. Faiza Al-Salti

• MemberofaNational Team for Developing a Cybersecurity Educational Framework team under the Ministry of HigherEducation Scientific Research and Innovation (2024 – current ).
• Servedasamember of the Hadatha technical committee at the university with collaboration with OCERT.
• Participatedin a consultancy service conducted to an external institution through CIRC.
• OrganizedaLPI Linux Essentials workshop (October) with the collaboration of Virdien Company.
• Servedasacoordinator of the CSG students group.

Dr. Hala Mulki

• Served as an external examiner of the CDS590 – Consultancy Project and Practicum at the MDSc program. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). Malaysia
• Served as a reviewer for The IEEE Transactions on Affective Computing (TAC) journal (IF:9.8).

Dr. Noushath Shaffi

• Program Chair and Competition Chair for the Conference Series of International Conference on Applied Intelligence and Informatics (AII).
• Member of IEEE Computational Intelligence Society Technical Activities (CISTA).
• Associate Editor for the Journal : Artificial Intelligence and Applications (Bon View Press)
• Reviewer for several International Reputed Journals : Cognitive Computation, Computer Science Review, IEEE Access, PeerJ Review, Computers in Biology and Medicine, IEEE Transactions on Multimedia (to mention few).
• Conducted a 3 day National Workshop on Hands-on Generative AI workshop funded by IEEE Computational Intelligence Society, Dec 23-35, 2025.
• Reviewed two B.Sc Programs in AI for different institutions in Oman.
• Member of Program Advisory Committee for M.Sc IT Programme, Middle East College, Muscat
• Active Senior member of IEEE.
• Conducted more than 10 community workshops on Generative AI topics as a certified NVIDIA Gen AI instructor both in and outside of Sultanate.
• Served as an Internal Examiner for an MSc thesis, Department of Computer Science, SQU.
• Served as an External Examiner for an Ph.D thesis, Department of Information Science, College of Economics and Political Science, SQU.

Dr.Shadha ALAmri

• Member of National Team for Developing a Cybersecurity Educational Framework team under the Ministry of Higher Education Scientific Research and Innovation (2024 – current )
• Oman Qualifications Framework External Reviewer (OQFER) , inclusion in the National Register of External Reviewers (National ER Register), effective 17 April 2024
• Member of Arab Open University, Faculty Of Computer Studies (Oman) Program Advisory Committee (PAC) (2024)

• Member of a cloud computing and cybersecurity team for Musandam-UTAS branch curriculum development (2022- 2024)
• External Examiner for National University for MSc in IT program. (2020 – 2024)
• A member of the executive committee of a project Oman Innovate (عمان تبتكر) with the Ministry of Higher Education Scientific Research and Innovation (2024 – current )
• Served as a reviewer for ICCDA 2024 https://iccdasubmission.com/index.php/home/committees
• Served as a reviewer in the Project evaluation Panel for IoT&AI challenge Oman in UTAS-ALMusnah https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF_-h89oqZn/?igsh=QkJNeG1ZZ181TA%3D%3D
• Served as a reviewer in the Project evaluation Panel for innovative projects in Arab Open University https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-shadha-alamri-77370a70/recent-activity/all/

Dr.Mohammed Kherfi

• Member of the Scientific and technical council of the High commission for digitalization.
• Served as an Internal Examiner for an MSc thesis, Department of Computer Science, SQU.
• Served as an Examiner for two PhD theses, Department of Computer Science, Ouargla University.
• Invited speaker at AIESEC Babez days, 2025.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

• The Computer Science Group (CSG) organized the following activities in 2025:
  • Workshop for School Students
  • Major Exhibition
  • Touch Typing Workshop
  • CSG Saga
  • IT–Economics Collaboration Event
  • DevClash Competition
  • Scientific Forum – Al Maabela School
  • Rihal Field Trip

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

Department of Earth Sciences

Overview

The Department of Earth Sciences at Sultan Qaboos University provides the Sultanate with quality Earth

Sciences graduates. The Department strives to contribute state-of-the-art geoscientific solutions and consultancies to the local community and industry. The Department offers degrees in Geophysics and in Earth Sciences as well as highly flexible MSc and Ph.D. programs that are responsive to market needs. The number of students majoring in Earth Sciences increases rapidly each year.

The Department of Earth Sciences currently has 16 academic staff. In addition, the Department has established very close links with the University Research Centres namely the Earthquake Monitoring Center (EMC), Remote Sensing and GIS Center (RSC), Oil and Gas Center (OGC), and Earth Sciences Research Centre (ESRC).

Members of the Departmental Main Committees

HoD Office

Mohamed El-Ghali
Prof. HoD

Mrs. Shahira Al-Balushi
Coordinator

BSc Curriculum

Iftikhar Ahmed

Rifaat Abdalla

Behzad Mehrabi

Muhammad Qasim

Khalil Al-Hooti

Accreditation

Andreas Scharf

Mohamed El-Ghali (MSc/PhD)

Rifaat Abdalla

Muhammad Younis Khan

Musaab Al Sarmi

Promotion

El-Ghali

Mohamed

(HoD)

Osman Abdalla

Salah Al-Khirbash

(Rapporteur)

Behzad Mehrabi

Iftikhar Ahmed

Appointment

HoD (Mohamed Elghali)

Khalil Al-Hooti

Osman Abdalla

Salah Al-Khirbash

Amani Al-Abri

HIGHLIGHTS

The year 2025 witnessedthe following:

DEAPARTMET OF EARTH SCIENCES CONDUCTED FIELD WORK

Students of the department conducted fieldwork.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Deapartment students winning the second place globally and first place in the petroleum specialization, competing against 56 universities worldwide. this remarkable accomplishment followed their first-place win at the gulf level, which qualified them to represent the middle east in the global finals.

VISITING CONSULTANTS & PART-TIME INSTRUCTORS

Amrou Al Alawi taught as as part-time instructor during Spring 2025

PROMOTION AND JOINING OF NEW FACULTY

Drs. Andreas Scharf and Mohamed El-Ghali have been promoted to the rank of Professor, while Dr. Musaab has rejoined the department after completing his PhD in the UK.

CURRICULUM

• Initiated the Sultan Qaboos University Petroleum Geosciences MSc Program for Accreditation.

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

The Department of Earth Sciences has been long collaborating with universities abroad. Following is a brief description of the ongoing collaborations faculty members are involved with:

Dr. Andreas Scharf

• 2024 to present, Italy Serpentinization and hydrogen formation in Oman Cooperation partners: Prof. Eugenio Carminati and Dr. Luca Aldega, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
• 2024 to present, U.S.A. Environmental forcing on the resilience of carbonate platforms during the Early Cretaceous super greenhouse period Cooperation partner: Dr. Alexis Godet, Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of Texas at San Antonio, U.S.A. 2023 to present, U.S.A. GRIND – Geological Research through Integrated Neoproterozoic Drilling in Oman (Mirbat area) Cooperation partner: Prof. Francis Macdonald, Department of Earth & Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, U.S.A.
• 2023 to present, Austria Structural characterization of the obducted Arabian Margin at the northwestern flank of the Jabal Akhdar Dome (wadis Taisa and Yika) Cooperation partners: Prof. Christoph von Hagke, Department of Geology and Physical Geography, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Austria
• 2023 to present, Ireland Geochemical and structural project at the Washihi-Mullaq-Al Ajal Copper- Gold VMS Deposit Cooperation partners: Dr. Claire Geel, Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geoscience, Dublin, Ireland; Dr. Thomas Belgrano, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
• 2022 to present, U.S.A., Sweden Tectonic evolution of a postobductional basin at Bandar Jissah Cooperation partners: Prof. Christopher Bailey, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, U.S.A.; Prof. Uwe Ring, Stockholm University, Sweden
• 2022 to present, Greece Architecture of a transtensional basin at the Frontal Range Fault (Sunub Basin) Cooperation partner: Dr. Nikos Economou, Polytechnioupolis-Kounoupidiana, Chania, Crete, Greece
• 2021 to present, Spain Micro-tomography of the world-oldest skeletal fossil (Palaeopascichnus) from the Fara Formation of Wadi Bani Awf Cooperation partners: Dr. André Pinto, University of Madrid, Spain; Dr. Pedro Alvarez-Lloret, University of Oviedo, Spain; Dr. Ivan Callegari, GUtech, Oman

• 2021 to present, France Architecture of the pre-obduction rifted margin of northern Oman Cooperation partners: Dr. Emmanuel Masini, CEO & Researcher, M&U sas, Grenoble, France; Dr. Maxime Ducoux, CEO & Researcher, M&U sas, Grenoble, France
• 2021 to present, U.A.E. A new model for karstification; supported by the UNESCO, IGCP-715 Cooperation partners: Dr. Daniel Moraetis, Sharjah University, U.A.E.; Prof. Kosmas Pavlopoulus, Paris Sorbonne at Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. 2020 to present, U.A.E. The Cenozoic tectonic evolution of Musandam and implications for hydrocarbons Cooperation partners: Dr. Daniel Moraetis, Sharjah University, U.A.E.; Prof. Kosmas Pavlopoulus, Paris Sorbonne at Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
• 2020 to present, Italy Paleomagnetism within autochthonous rocks of the Oman Mountains, revealing the rotation of Arabia during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic Cooperation partners: Prof. Francesca Cifelli and Prof. Massimo Mattei, Università Roma Tre, Italy; Prof. Eugenio Carminati and Dr. Luca Aldega, Sapienza Università di Roma, Italy
• 2018 to present, South Africa Dating of fault- and fold-related mineralized key veins of the Oman Mountains and fluid flow Cooperation partners: Prof. Robert Bolhar, University of Witwatersrand, Braamfontain, South Africa; Dr. Tonguc Uysal, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Turkey; Dr. Kim Baublys, The University of Queensland, Australia; Prof. Gülcan Bozkaya, Pamukkale University, Turkey

Dr. M.Younis Khan

• Has research collaboration with Dr. Abrar Niaz and other colleagues from the Azad Jammu & Kashmir University, Pakistan. As a result of the research collberation, a manuscript is published in Q1 category journal
• Has a research collaboration with Dr. Sher Muhammad from the International Center for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), Kathmandu, Nepal.
• Has a research collaboration with Dr.Ekrem Saralioglu from the Department of Geomantic Engineering, Division of Remote Sensing, University of Artvin Coruh, Artvin, Turkey.
• Has a research collaboration with Prof. Chih-Ping Lin, Dean, College of Engineering, Distinguished Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Director, Disaster Prevention & Water Environment Research Center at the National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan.
• Has a research collaboration with Dr Jamie Pringle from University of Keele, UK, a research work is published as a result of this collberation.

Dr. Salah Al-Khirbash

• Prof. Martin J. Whitehouse (Swedish Museum of Natural History, Dept. of Geosciences, Sweden)

Dr. Sobhi Nasir

• Has a research collaboration with Nanging University, China

Dr. Muhammad Qasim

• Has a research collaboration with Prof. Dr. Ding Lin from Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China on Geochronology of the Foreland Basin Sediments, Oman

Prof. Osman Abdalla

• Initiated the collaboration focused on Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) between Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and the Ocean University of China (OUC).
• Meeting with Exeter University for joint collaboration in mineral sector
• Dr. Ian Douglas Clark, Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of Ottawa, Canada. Exchanged research visits, laboratories facilities, field visits, and drafted proposals and published papers.
• Prof. Vitaly Zlotnik, Dept. of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Nebraska- Lincoln, USA.
• Dr. Essam Heggy NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, CALTECH, USA.
• Prof. Elfatih Eltahir, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA. Drafted a proposal for funding by The Omani Authority for Partnership for Development (OAPFD).
• Prof. Tetsuya Sumi and Prof. Sameh Kantoush, Disaster Prevention Research Institute (DPRI), Kyoto University, Japan.
• Dr. Marwan Al-Raggad, Water, Energy and Environment Center, University of Jordan, Jordan.
• Dr. Seifu Kebede, School of Earth Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia.
• Dr. Mustafa El Rawy, Civil Engineering Dept. Minia University, Egypt.
• Prof. Behkie, University of South Africa.

INDUSTRIAL COLLABORATION

SULTAN QABOOS NIVERSITYANDINERAL DEVELOPMENT OMAN (MDO) SIGNED A LETTER OF

U

M
COOPERATION TO PURSUE COOPERATIVE RELATIONS BETWEEN THE DEPARTMENT OF EARTH SCIENCES, COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND MDO IN RESEARCH AND EDUCATION THROUGH MUTUAL COOPERATION

SIGNING CEREMONY BETWEEN MINERAL DEVELOPMENT OMAN (MDO) AND SULTAN QABOOS UNIVERSITY (SQU)

INDUSTRIAL TRAINING OF STUDENTS

DURING SUMMER 2025, THE DEPARTMENT STUDENTS (TOTAL 21 STUDENTS) ENROLLED IN THE TRAINING PROGRAMS INCLUDING AL BOOTCAMP PROGRAM, HALIBURTON, RIHAL, SGS INSPECTION AND TESTING SERVICES, AND SCHLUMBERGER.

STUDENTS PARTICIPATED IN THE TRAINING ALONG WITH D. A MANI (FIRST FROM RIGHT TO LEFT IN

R
FIRST ROW) FROM DEPARTMEN TOF EEATH SCIENCES

STAFF TRAINING

Dr. Sobhi Nasir

• Mineral development Oman (MDO)

Prof. Osman Abdalla

• Halliburton and SQU (Earth Science) Collaboration
• Slumberger /SLB AI Academy

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Conferences/workshops/seminars

• Andreas Scharf presented research on Detrital zircon U-Pb geochronology of the basal Saiq siliciclastic – A complete magmatic record from the Archean to the Permian/Triassic of NE Sultanate of Oman at European Geosciences Union (EGU) General Assembly held in Viena in April 2025.
• Dr Qasim presented research on Detrital Zircon Fingerprints of Gondwana’s Assembly: Insights from the Amin Formation, Central Oman held in November 2025.

• Dr Mohamed Elghali presented research on Decoding the absolute age of the Cambrian Sauk transgression in Southeaster Arabian Plate by radiogenic strontium of diagenetic calcite at 38th IAS Meeting held in in Spain June 2025.
• Dr, Younis presented research on Assessment of contaminant leachate plumes of an open dumpsite at IAH, Melbourne, Australia in September 2025.
• Dr Qasim presented research on Detrital Zircon U–Pb Evidence for Western Himalayan Uplift and Erosion in the Miocene Foreland Basin, Pakistan held in Indonesia, November 2025.
• Dr Iftikhar presented on Facies Variability and Basin Evolution of the Cretaceous Oman Foreland Basin: Insights into Tectono- Sedimentary Dynamics held in Indonesia, November
• 2025.
  Prof. Muahamed Elghali and Dr.Mohammed Farfour organized a workshop on active learning Wednesday, 10th of December 2025.

CONSULTANY SERVICES

Prof. Osman Abdallah

• MAF underground contamination. Research Consultancy Funded by OQ, Oman. Contract Number 4600009360. Project Code CR/DVC/WRC/24/03. (Budget 15000 OMR). 2024-2025. Principle Investigator.
• Groundwater Quality Assessment for Ar Rustaq. Research consultancy funded by LEA ASSOCIATES, Oman. Project Code CR/SCI/ETHS/24/1 (budget 1500RO). 2024- 2025. Principle Investigator.
• Mitigating the Impact of Water and Vegetation on Muscat International Airport: A Detailed Hdropedoecological Investigation. Research Consultancy Funded by Oman Airports. Project Code CR/--/DVC/WRC/25/001, Project entitled ". (Budget 98000 OMR). 2025-present. Co-investigator

PROJECTS AWARDED

RESAERCH PROJECTS

IN TOTAL FACULTY AT THE DEPARTMENT WON 10 GRANTS INCLUDING INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL. FEW PROJECTS ARE GIVEN IN THE FOLLOWING

Internal

• RF/7026/2025/2546 PI Dr. Mohamed El-Ghali
• IG/7026/2025/34 PI Dr. B. Mehrabi
• IG/SCI/ETHS/25/04 PI Iftikhar Ahmed

External

• BFP/RGP/EI/25/106 PI Dr. Mohamed El-Ghali
• BFP/RGP/EI/25/129 PI Dr. Andreas
• BFP/RGP/EBR/25/082 PI Dr. M.Younis Khan

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

Department of Mathematics

Overview

TheDepartment started in 1986 as the Department of Mathematics and Computing, offering a single Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Computing. This evolved into three Bachelor's degrees in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science. In 1995 the Department of Computer Science was established to host the Computer Science degree. The mother department name then changed to Mathematics and Statistics (DOMAS). In 2018, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics (DOMAS) split into two departments: the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Statistics.

The Department of Mathematics is among the largest departments in the University, with over 40 faculty members. The department offers programs leading to B.Sc degree in Mathematics, M.Sc degree in Pure Mathematics, and M. Sc degree in Applied Mathematics, and a doctorate degree in Mathematics. The department offers service courses to several colleges in SQU. The department is committed to quality teaching, research, and community service. The Department of Mathematics faculty members are very active in research.

Members of the Departmental Main Committees

HIGHLIGHTS

The year 2025 witnessedthe following:

• The Department organized a faculty development workshop on active learning strategies in teaching Mathematics, presented by Dr. Asma Al Ghassani. It also conducted student-focused sessions to introduce the Eidaad Program and encourage participation.
• Dr. Bushra Al Ghabshi delivered a seminar on academic advising responsibilities and the degree-audit process to faculty members.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman delivered a seminar titled "Tips to Secure Research Grants at Sultan Qaboos University," offering valuable guidance on developing competitive proposals, understanding funding priorities, and avoiding common pitfalls in grant applications.
• Professors Kuppalapalle Vajravelu (USA), Ahmed Al Salman, and Mohammad Mansur Rahman edited the Mathematics Special Topic Issue published by the SQU Journal for Science, which contains invited and selected papers presented at the International Conference: Recent Trend in Mathematics (ICM-SQU2024) held from March 6-8, 2024, at Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.

• Dr. Mohammad Shahryari published the book “Elementary Number Theory” with the SQU Deanship of Research.

DEPARTING STAFF

• Dr. Hamed Al-Shamsi (March)
• Dr. Arran Fernandez (June)
• Dr. Kamal Nafa (June)
• Ms. Azza Al-Barwani (January)

APPOINTMENTS

• Mr. Ali Al-Malki (new Demonstrator)
• Ms. Sara Al-Lawati (new Demonstrator)

SCHOLARSHIPS & OVERSEAS STUDIES

• Ms. Thuriya Al-Hinai
• Dr. Yassir Dinar served as Visiting Associate Professor at New York University Abu Dhabi (2024–2025).
• Dr. Yassir Dinar undertook a research visit to the Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), Trieste, Italy, in
  his capacity as Arab Fund Associate, from July 23, 2025, to August
  23, 2025, to carry out his own research.

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Dr.YassirDinarisanArab-FundAssociateofICTP (2024–present).

VISITING CONSULTANTS & PART-TIME INSTRUCTORS

The Departmentreceived the followingacademicstaffasconsultants and part-timers:

• Spring 2025:
  • Dr. Mohsin Hisham
  • Dr. M. Fazeel Anwar
  • Dr. Siraj-ul-Islam
  • Dr. Reza Kazmi
  • Mr. Omar Al-Raisi
  • Dr. Khadija Al-Balushi
  • Dr. Sheikha Al-Weheibi
  • Dr. Latifa Al-Balushi
  • Dr. Khadija Al-Hasani
  • Dr. Badriya Al-Azri
• Fall 2025:
  • Dr. Hamed Al-Shamsi
  • Dr. Siraj- ul-Islam
  • Dr. Medhat Rakha
  • Dr. Kamel Nafa
  • Dr. Rukiye Samci Karadeniz
  • Dr. Reza Matin
  • Dr. Khadija Al-Balushi
  • Dr. Sheikha Al-Weheibi
  • Dr. Latifa Al-Balushi
  • Dr. Khadija Al-Hasani
  • Dr. Zainab Al-Mamari
  • Dr. Kaltham Al-Kalbani
  • Dr. Keifah Al-Maqrashi

VISITORS & CONSULTANT

• Dr. E. Balakrishnan hosted the visit of Prof. M.S. Alam from
  Jagannath University, Bangladesh, to foster research collaboration. The visit took
  place from October 1, 2025, to October 7, 2025.
• Prof. S. Karaa hosted the visit of Prof. Amiya K. Pani from the Department of Mathematics, BITS- Pilani, KK Birla Goa, India, during the period 24 Jan, 2025 to 02 Feb, 2025. During his visit, a paper on fractional Stokes system was completed.
• Prof. S. Karaa hosted the visit of Dr. Shujaat Khan from the Department of Computer Engineering, KFUPM, Dhahran, KSA, during the period 26-31 Oct. 2025. He delivered a general talk to the College of Science.
• Dr. N. Khanna hosted Prof. S. K. Kaushik and Dr. S. K. Sharma from the University of Delhi, India, during their visit from November 22 to November 27, 2025, to promote research collaboration. Prof.
• A. Purnama hosted the visit of Prof. Peter Markowich from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia to discussed GCC Applied Mathematics Colloquium. The visit took place on 20 October 2025, and Prof. Markowich gave a departmental seminar.
• Dr. Omar Tout hosted the visit of Prof. Ibrahim Al-Ayyoub from the Jordan University of Science & Technology from September 21, 2025 to September 26, 2025. The visit was supported by SQU Internal grant IG/SCI/MATH/24/03 and Prof. Al-Ayyoub gave a departmental seminar.

CURRICULUM

• Dr.MessaoudBoulbrachene chaired (as chair of the DCC) the revision of the MATH3302, MATH4452, and MATH6016 courses.
• Dr. Messaoud Boulbrachene participated (as a member of the DCC) in the preparation of the BSc Degree Program 2026-2030
• Dr. Yassir Dinar chaired the Department Curriculum Committee (DCC) and coordinated the revision of the BSc Mathematics Degree Plan (2026–2030).
• Dr. Yassir Dinar led a department-wide cross-check and consolidation of CDCFs, course outlines, SIS entries, and the department website; a consolidated action list and recommendations were prepared for the Department Board, 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar coordinated the documentation pack for key degree-plan changes, including raising Summer Training (MATH4445) to OQF Level 7, introducing MATH2225 (Computer Algebra Systems) and aligning prerequisite/corequisite chains, and preparing MATH3172 documentation in the new format.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar chaired an ad-hoc Curriculum Committee meeting to review and finalize Summer Training (MATH4445), including the final course outline and the Student Field Training Guideline pack.

• Dr. Yassir Dinar coordinated the formatting and systematic collection of OQF level assignments for Mathematics courses, consolidating inputs from course teams and supporting alignment with curriculum documentation requirements
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch participated in revising the MATH4452 course.

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

The Department of Mathematics has been collaborating with universities abroad from inception. Following is a brief description of the ongoing collaborations faculty members are involved with:

• Dr. Messaoud Boulbrachene is collaborating with Prof. S. Saadi, University of Annaba, Algeria,

  and Dr. Q. Alfarei, University of Technology and Applied Science, Oman.

• Dr. Ibrahim M. Elmojtaba has collborated with Prof. Mario Levebre of Polytechnigue Montreal, Canada, and Dr. Nasser Al-Salti, National University, Muscat, Oman.
• Dr. Sanjiv Gupta is collaborating with Prof. A. H. Dooley, University of Technology, Sydney, on transference of multipliers in rank one semi-simple Lie groups.
• Dr. Sanjiv Gupta is collaborating with Prof. Nico Spronk, University of Waterloo, Canada on smoothness of convolutions of orbital measures in flat symmetric spaces.
• Prof. Samir Karaa is collaborating with Dr. Naveed Ahmed, Gulf University of Sciences and Technology, Kuwait, on mixed FEM for time-fractional problems.
• Prof. Samir Karaa is collaborating with Prof. Amiya K. Pani, Department of Mathematics, BITS-Pilani, KK Birla Goa, India, on inverse problems for fractional problems.
• Prof. Samir Karaa is collaborating with Dr. Chaoyu QUAN, SUSTech International Center for Mathematics, Shenzhen, China, on the analysis of subdiffusion problems on non-uniform meshes.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal is collaborating with an expert and eminent researcher in the stability of fractional differential equations, namely Prof. N. Tatar, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran, KSA.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal is collaborating in the field of inverse problems and fractional differential equations with Dr. E. Karimov a senior in the field of classical and fractional differential equations at Ghent Unuversity, Ghent, Belgium and with other collaborators from Fergana State University, Uzbekistan, establishing a strong and productive international collaboration.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal is collaborating with Prof. Kirane and Dr, Ahmed Fino exceptional contributors in the development of blow-up of solutions for classical and fractional differential equations. Further contributions of Prof. Kirane, Khalifa University, UAE are existence, non-existence of solutions, and inverse problems while Dr. Fino, American University of the Middle East, Kuwait is mainly blow-up solutions..

• Dr. S. K. Gandhi, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, India; Dr. Naveen Gupta, Indian Institute of Science, India; Dr. Gopal Datt, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, India, and Dr. Pappu Kumar, Jai Prakash University, India on the areas of wavelet theory, Boas transforms, operator radius inequalities, Hadamard-type inequalities, several complex variables and

  𝐶𝐶0 semigroups.

• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch has a standing collaboration with Prof. Janne Heittokangas, University of Eastern Finland, Finland; Dr. Amine Zemirni, National Higher School of Mathematics, Algeria. Pr. Ilpo Laine, University of Eastern Finland, Finland.
• Dr. Khawar Mehmood has a standing collaboration with Prof. Gerhard Pfister, RPTU Rheinland-Pfälzische Technische Universität Kaiserslautern–Landau, Germany; Dr. Muhammad Ahsan Binyamin, Government College University Faisalabad, Pakistan; and Dr. Malik Tusif Ahmed, Hazara University Mansehra, Pakistan.
• Prof. A. Purnama has started a collaborating research project with Prof. Basuki Widodo, Institute of Technology Sepuluh Nopember, Indonesia; and has a standing collaboration with Drs. Khaled Al-Mashrafi, Ahmed Al-Kasbi, and Mohammed Al-Hatmi from A’Sharqiyah University, Oman.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman has a standing collaboration with Prof. Ioan Pop, University of Babes-Bolyai, Romania; Prof. M. Ziad Saghir, Toronto Metropolitan University, Canada; Prof. K. Vajravelu, University of Central Florida, USA, Prof. M. S. Alam, Jagannath

  Oman,
  University, Bangladesh, and Dr. M. J. Uddin, Nizwa University,
  on the areas of nanofluids, heat and mass transfer, and transport in porous media, machine learning and artificial neural network.

• Dr. Mohammad Shahryari has collaborated with Sobolev Institute of Mathematics (Novosibirsk, Russia) as the Editor-in-Chief of the Proceedings of 16^th International Conference in Model Theory and Algebra.
• Dr. Omar Tout started collaborations with Prof. Alain Goupil from the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières and Prof. Ibrahim Al-Ayyoub from the Jordan University of Science & Technology on the areas of commutative algebra and algebraic combinatorics.

STAFF TRAINING

• Dr. Yassir Dinar attended the workshop titled AI in Education, Independent Learning Center, SQU, 25 November 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar attended the workshop titled AI in Research, Independent Learning Center, SQU, 1 December 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar attended the Professional Development Program workshop titled Advanced Uses of Artificial Intelligence in Education, College of Science, SQU, 25 December 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar attended a Professional Development Program session, Virtual Reality Lab, Center for Educational Technologies (CET), SQU, 4 December 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar attended the Transforming Teaching with Active Learning workshop, SQU, 12 October 2025.
• Dr. Ibrahim M. Elmojtaba attended the workshops:
  • AI workshops for Education & Research in Higher Education organized by CETL, in February 2025.
  • Integrating Project-Based Learning (PBL) in University Teaching and Learning, Center for learning innovations and Customized Knowledge Solutions, UAE, March 2025, (Online).
  • Transforming Teaching with Active Learning Workshop, SQU, September 23, 2025.
  • Active Learning in Action: Implementing Team-Based Learning in Linear Algebra, SQU, October 30, 2025.
• Dr. Sanjiv Gupta attended a workshop: Active Learning in Action: Implementing Team-Based Learning in Linear Algebra, SQU, October 30, 2025.
• Dr. Sanjiv Gupta attended a workshop: Artificial Intelligence in Education, conducted by CETL, SQU in SPRING 2025.
• Dr. Sanjiv Gupta attended a workshop:

  Artificial Intelligence in Research conducted by CETL, SQU in SPRING 2025.

• Prof. S. Karaa attended the workshop "From Rejection to Acceptance: Dealing with Reviewers’ Comments." organized by Emerald Publishing, 02 October, 2025.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal attended a workshop: Transforming Teaching with Active Learning Workshop, SQU, September 23, 2025.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal attended a workshop: Active Learning in Action: Implementing Team-Based Learning in Linear Algebra, SQU, October 30, 2025.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna attended the workshop entitled “Outcome Based Learning" conducted by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) on April 17, 2025 at SQU, Oman.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna attended the workshop entitled “Artificial Intelligence in Education," conducted by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) in Spring 2025 at SQU, Oman.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna attended the workshop entitled “Artificial Intelligence in Research," conducted by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) in Spring 2025 at SQU, Oman.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna attended the webinar entitled “Getting started with AI,” conducted by Wolfram U on July 29, 2025.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna attended the workshop entitled “Active Learning in Action: Implementing Team-Based Learning in Linear Algebra,” conducted by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) on October 30, 2025, at SQU, Oman.
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch attended the workshop on AI Workshops for Education & Research in Higher Education organized by CETEL.
• Dr.

  Zinelaabidine Latreuch attended the Transforming Teaching with Active Learning workshop organized by College of Science.

• Prof. A. Purnama attended the workshop on Artificial Intelligence in Research, 12 October 2025, and on Artificial Intelligence for Education in Mathematics, 20 February 2025.

• Prof. A. Purnama attended the workshop Active Learning in Action: Implementing Team- Based learning in Linear Algebra, 30 October 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the workshop on Scopus Indexation and Special Issues in Academic Journals, Digital Commons, Elsevier, 14 April 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the workshop on Scopus Indexation and Special Issues in Academic Journals, Digital Commons, Elsevier, 16 April 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman Chaired a scientific session for the conference 16^th ICTEA, June 18-20, 2025, Bucharest, Romania.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the workshop on GenAI in Scientific Writing & Scholarly Publishing, Elsevier, 1 July 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman, Prof. A. Purnama are serving as members of an ad hoc committee working on developing a new specialization in Computational and Industrial
• Mathematics.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the workshop on Strategic Advising Meeting, Digital Commons, Elsevier, 14 October 2025.
• Prof.MohammadMansurRahman attended the workshop on QS Ranking, College of Science, SQU, 20 October 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the workshop titled AI in Education, Independent Learning Center, SQU, 25 November 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the workshop titled AI in Research, Independent Learning Center, SQU, 1 December 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the series of Professional Development workshops organized by CETL, SQU, October-December 2025, Oman.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman attended the Professional Development Program workshop titled Advanced Uses of Artificial Intelligence in Education, College of Science, SQU, 25 December 2025.

• Dr. Omar Tout attended the workshops on the use of Artificial Intelligence by CETL, SQU, Oman.
• Dr. Abdul Wahab attended the Professional Development workshops organized by CETL, SQU, Oman.

STUDENT TRAINING & INDUSTRY PLACEMENT

• Two students enrolled in the Eidaad training program to develop practical skills and gain professional experience. The program incorporated a structured evaluation process, carried out both at the host training institutions and within the Department, to assess its Student: Raheel Yousuf Al-Maawali, ID 133299
  effectiveness.

  Student: Athar Yaqoob Al-Nadabi, ID 133897

NEW EQUIPMENT

• The department received all-in-one type 8 PCs (Dell TYNP5).

COMMUNITY SERVICE

• Nadia Al Dhamri, attended and participated in the accreditation process meeting for the Master’s Program in Curricula and Methods of Teaching Social Studies during 28–29 October 2025.
• Nadia Al Dhamri, Completed a course in " Learning from within: Peer Review's Role in Teacher Professional Development".
• Nadia Al Dhamri attended and participated
  in the advisory board of the Department of
  Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education, for the academic year 2025/2026, 29 December 2025.
• Nadia Al Dhamri Participated in the external review interview of the Master’s Program in Curriculum and Methods of Teaching Mathematics (13 November 2025)
• Dr. Amina Al-Sawaai was organized the Edaad Program workshop hosted by the Edaad Program Director, providing all relevant information about the Edaad Program to the students of the College of Science.
• Dr. Amina Al-Sawaai was organized the second Edaad workshop, hosted by a student from the Mathematics Department who shared her experience in the Edaad Program after completing it,

followed by an interactive discussion with College of Science students regarding registration and admission requirements.

• Dr. Messaoud Boulbrachene continues serving as official nominator for the international VinFuture Prize.
• Dr. Messaoud Boulbrachene continues serving as a reviewer for the American Mathematical Society (Math SciNet).
• Dr. Messaoud Boulbrachene Continue serving in the Editorial Board for the international journal: The Pecaric Journal of Mathematical Inequalities.
• Dr. Messaoud Boulbrachene reviewed two manuscripts for the international journals: Journalof iequalities and Applications and Iranean journal of nuerical analysis and Optimization.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar delivered an invited talk at the University of Bergamo, Dalmine, Province of Bergamo, Italy, March 11, 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar delivered an invited talk at the New York University Abu Dhabi Mathematics Colloquium, United Arab Emirates, April 11, 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar delivered an invited talk at the University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom, May 27, 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar delivered an invited talk at Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, May 29, 2025.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar is an organizer and a member of the scientific committee of the Oman Mathematics Committee – International Winter Workshop (OMC–IWW): “Advances in Lie Theory and Related Areas”, Sultan Qaboos University, 4-8 January, 2026.
• Dr. Yassir Dinar served as Chair of the DCC, liaising with CCC/College requirements, coordinating curriculum approvals, and supporting quality assurance updates across official records (CDCF/SIS/website), 2025.
• Dr. Ibrahim M. Elmojtaba reviewed papers for: AIMS Mathematics, Journal of Mahani Mathematical Research, Scientific Reports, Journal of Nonlinear Mathematical Physics, Quality & Quantity, Palestinian Journal of Mathematics.
• Dr. Ibrahim M. Elmojtaba Chaired the PhD defense of the student: Mahmoud Al Azwani, Dept. of Chemistry, and the MSc student Tharaya Al Nabhan, Dept. of Computer Science.

(DR/RG/30).

• Dr. Ibrahim M. Elmojtaba delivered invited talks at: 8th India Biodiversity Meet, ISI Kolkata, Kolkata, India, Feb. 2025, and the 2^nd Symposium on Mathematical Modeling, Military Technological College, Muscat, Oman, Dec. 2025.
• Dr. Ibrahim M. Elmojtaba prepared the appointment and the qualification exams for the Ministry of Education, Oman.
• Prof. Samir Karaa continues serving as a member of the Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics and American Mathematical Society.
• Prof. Samir Karaa continues coordinating the Scientific Computing Research Group (DR/RG/24), Department of Mathematics.
• Prof. Samir Karaa reviewed a research proposal for the block funding programme of the Ministry of Higher Education Research and Innovation (MOHERI), Sultanate of Oman, round 2025.
• Prof. Samir Karaa Chaired a PhD thesis defense in the Department of Statistics on 28. Dec 2025.
• Prof. Samir Karaa chaired an M.Sc. thesis defense in the Department of Computer Science on 3rd June 2025.
  Prof. Samir Karaa reviewed papers for (i) Journal of Computational and Applied Mathematics

Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation.

• Dr. Sanjiv Gupta reviewed several articles for Mathematical Reviews and Zentrablatt Math.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal continues serving Editorial Board: Universal Journal of Applied Mathematics.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal continues serving as a member of Tunisian Mathematical society and American Mathematical Society
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal Chaired a session “Delay Differential Equations and Nevanlinna Theory” for Oman Mathematics Committee’s Weekly Research Webinars Season 1, (2024-2025).
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal Continue coordinating FracDiff research group (DR/RG/03), Department of Mathematics, SQU, 2018-present.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal continue serving external reviewer for Oman Authority for Academic Accreditation and Quality Assurance (OAAAQA), Oman.
• Dr. Sebti Kerbal reviewed two manuscripts for international Journal, 2025.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna delivered an invited talk titled “Recent Advancements in Boas Transforms:
• Generalizations and Applications” at the 3rd International Conference on Recent Trends in Mathematical Sciences (ICRTMS-2025), held on May 10–11, 2025, organized by the Himachal Ganita Parishad at Himachal Pradesh University, India.

• Dr. Nikhil Khanna was a member of the International Advisory Committee of ICRTMS-2025, Himachal Pradesh University, India, May 10-11, 2025.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna served as a member of the Master’s Program Review Committee to revise the Postgraduate Degree Program for the period 2025–2029.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna served as a member of the ad hoc committee responsible for revising the undergraduate course MATH3302 which was implemented in Fall 2025.
• Dr. Nikhil Khanna reviewed papers for (i) Integral Transforms and Special Functions
  IEEE Access (iii) Physica Scripta (iv) International Journal of Wavelets, Multiresolution and Information Processing (v) Linear and Multilinear Algebra (vi) Jordan Journal of Mathematics and Statistics (vii) Iranian Journal of Science (viii) SQU Journal for Science (ix) MathSciNet (x) zbMATH
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch has served as a member of the FYP Committee, the Teaching Committee, and the Library and Textbook Committee.
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch delivered a departmental seminar on Nevanlinna theory and functional equations in the complex domain.
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch delivered an invited talk in Fasdiff25 workshop, in Spain.
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch served as the opponent for the PhD thesis of Yang Liu at the University of Eastern Finland, Finland.
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch participated in training students who took part in university-level

  mathematics competitions.

• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch reviewed papers for (i) Journal of Mathematical Research with Applications, (2) Analysis Mathematica, (3) Rendiconti del Circolo Matematico di Palermo Series 2, (4) Mathematical Methods in the Applied Sciences, (5) Open Mathematics, (6) Analysis and Mathematical Physics, (7) Mediterranean Journal of Mathematics.
• Dr. Zinelaabidine Latreuch prepared departmental lecture notes that are now used for the courses MATH3303, MATH3171, MATH4151, and MATH4452.

• Dr. Haniffa Mohamed Nasir examined a Ph.D. Thesis from Bharathidasan University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh, August, 2025.
• Dr. Haniffa Mohamed Nasir examined a Ph.D. Thesis from Bharathidasan University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh, October, 2025.
• Dr. Haniffa Mohamed Nasir reviewed papers for (i) Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation, (ii) Physics and Chemistry of the Earth, Parts A/B/C,

  Conference paper for ICFDA2025, Algiers, Algeria, 16-18, December, 2025.

• Dr. Haniffa Mohamed Nasir delivered an invited talk on the 14th Annual Science Research Session (ASRS 2025), Southeastern University, Sri Lanka, 30, October, 2025.
• Prof. A. Purnama examined a Ph.D. Thesis from UAE University, UAE, April, 2025.
• Prof. A. Purnama Chaired a PhD Thesis Defense in the Dept. of Physics on 28 January 2025.
• Prof. A. Purnama was a member of the scientific committee of the International Conference on Green and Sustainable Materials (ICGSM 2025), A’Sharqiyah University, Oman, 13-14 October 2025.
• Prof. A. Purnama reviewed papers for (i) Journal of Hazardous Materials Advances, (ii) Desalination, (iii) Next Research, (iv) Science of the Total Environment.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman was a member of the scientific committee of 16^th ICTEA, Bucharest, Romania, 18-20 June, 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman deliberated an invited talk on the 16^th ICTEA, Bucharest,

Romania, 18-20 June, 2025.

• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman deliberated an invited talk on the ICAMSTA2025, Osmania University, Hyderabad, India, 12-14 December 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman continue serving as official nominator for the VinFuture Prize.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman reviewed papers for (i) International Journal of Thermofluids, (ii) International Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer, (iii) International Journal of Heat and Fluid Flow, (iv) International Journal of Thermofluids Science and Technology, (v) Propulsion and Power Research, (vi) Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman coordinating Nanofluid Research Group (DR/RG/04), Department of Mathematics, SQU, 2018-present.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman examined a Ph.D. Thesis from Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh, October, 2025.

• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman Chaired a PhD thesis defense in the Dept. of Biology on 3 June 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman Chaired an M.Sc. thesis defense in the Dept. of Chemistry on 21 September 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman was a member of ad-hoc committee working on a new specialization in Computational and Industrial Mathematics.
• Dr. Mohammad Shahryari continued serving as a member of the editorial board of the international journals: Bulletin of Iranian Math. Soc., Mathematics Interdisciplinary Research, Mathematical Modeling, and Proceedings of Algebra and Model Theory.
• Dr. Mohammad Shahryari continued his collaboration with Oman Mathematics Committee in conducting the workshop on the occasion of the International Day of Women in Mathematics and conducting weekly research webinars of OMC.
• Dr. Mohammad Shahryari has served by training a team of students to participate in the competition Musabiqat held in Khalifa University.
• Dr. Mohammad Shahryari continued reviewing several papers in international journals.
• Dr. Omar Tout reviewed papers for the Australasian Journal of Combinatorics, the Formal Power Series and Algebraic Combinatorics (FPSAC), Mathscinet and Zentralblatt Math.
• Dr. Abdul Wahab reviewed papers for (i) PLoS One, (ii) Journal of Computational Physics, (iii) IEEE Access, (iv) Partial Differential Equations in Applied Mathematics.

Serving on Editorial Boards of Journals and Chairing Conference Sessions

• Dr. Ibrahim M. Elmojtaba continues to serve as an editorial board member of: Journla of Mathematical Epidemiology, and American Journal of Applied Mathematics.
• Nikhil Khanna continued serving on the editorial boards of (i) Journal of Function Spaces, Mathematics in Medical and Life Sciences, (iii) Poincare Journal of Analysis and Applications, (iv) Barekeng: Journal of Mathematics and Its Applications, and (v) PLOS One.
• Nikhil Khanna served as a Guest Editor for the Special Issue titled “ICMAGI-4: Mathematical Analysis, Generalized Integration, and Their Applications” published in the Poincare Journal of Analysis and Applications in 2025.
• Prof. A. Purnama continued serving as the International Editorial Board for Barekeng Journal of Mathematics and Its Applications.

• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman was a Guest Editor for a Special Issue on “Experimental and Numerical Thermal Science in Porous Media” for Energies, Published by MDPI, 2025. Prof.
• Mohammad Mansur Rahman was a Guest Editor for the Mathematics Special Topic Issue, Vol. 30 (2) published by the SQU Journal for Science, 2025.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman served as an associate editor of SQUJS.
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman continued serving on the Editorial boards for (i) Fluid Dynamics & Material Processing, (ii) International Journal of Thermofluids Science and Technology, (iii) International Journal of Heat and Technology, (iv) Journal of Engineering and Sustainable Development (JEAS), (v) Computational Methods for Differential Equations (CMDE).
• Prof. Mohammad Mansur Rahman Chaired a session on the 16^th ICTEA, Bucharest, Romania, 18-20 June, 2025.
• Dr. Mohammad Shahryari continued serving as a member of the editorial board of the international journals: Bulletin of Iranian Math. Soc., Mathematics Interdisciplinary Research, Mathematical Modeling, and Proceedings of Algebra and Model Theory.

STUDENTS ACTIVITIES

Group: Mathematics

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

Al-Lawati, Mohamad

PhD (University of South Carolina, USA, 1997)

Department of Physics

Overview

The Department of Physics consistently delivers high-quality education at the undergraduate, postgraduate,

and PhD levels. It offers approximately 40 undergraduate courses and 20 MSc-level courses, covering fundamental principles of physics and mathematics, hands-on laboratory training, computational techniques, and research-oriented projects. Many courses incorporate active learning strategies and are managed through e-learning platforms like Moodle and Google Classroom. The flexible degree structure allows students to major in Physics while pursuing a minor in other subjects. Additionally, the Department offers minors in Astronomy, Medical Physics, and Applied Nuclear Science, enabling students to tailor their studies to their interests and enhancing their career prospects in various scientific fields.

The Department boasts well-equipped general and specialized teaching laboratories in areas such as Electronics, Modern Physics, Nuclear Physics, Thermal Physics, Mechanics, Lasers & Optics, Condensed Matter, and Computational Physics. Students receive hands-on training in Electronics, as well as in Metal and Wood Workshops.

Research facilities within the Department include advanced instruments such as Mössbauer spectroscopy, Faraday and VSM systems for magnetic measurements, a four-point probe for electrical resistivity analysis, and an ultra-high vacuum instrument with XPS/AES/UPS/SPA-LEED for surface chemical analysis. Additional equipment includes AFM/STM/MFM for surface morphology studies, an LRC meter for dielectric research, and DLTS for investigating electrically active defects in semiconductors. The Department also possess a TCSPC system for time-resolved fluorescence decay measurements, a UV ozone cleaner for ultra- clean surface preparation, vacuum coating and sputtering systems for thin film formation, and a solar cell simulator. Furthermore, facilities for electrical characterization using IVT and CVT, along with high- performance computational resources, support cutting-edge research and innovation.

HoD Office

Professor Hisham Widatallah,
HoD (Fall 24-present)

MSc(Southampton)
PhD (Nanjing)

ZulaikhaAl-Mahrooqi
Coordinator

Members of the Departmental Main Committees 2025-2026

Academic Promotion

Prof.

Hisham Widatallah

(HoD-Chair)

Prof. Rachid Sbiaa

Prof. Nazife Koca

Prof. Imad Al-Omari

Dr. Alaa Ibrahim

Accreditation & Quality

Assurance

Prof.

Hishma Widatallah

(HoD-Chair)

Dr. Sumesh Sofin Pillai

Dr. Mohammed Souier

Dr. Kazi Abedin

Dr. Afsal Manekkathodi

Appointment

Prof. Hisham Widatallah

HIGHLIGHTS

• Since its establishment in 1986, the Physics Department at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has been a leading center for high-quality education and research in Oman and the region. We offer a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs that prepare students to meet the demands of the scientific community and the broader professional world.
• Our undergraduate programs provide a solid foundation in fundamental physics principles, equipping students with the analytical and problem-solving skills needed to succeed in various careers. We offer minor specializations in Medical Physics, Astronomy, and Nuclear Sciences. Soon, in collaboration with the Biology and Chemistry departments, we will coordinate a minor in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology. The department is the pioneer in introducing Active Learning in its teaching program at SQU.
  • At the postgraduate level, we offer M.Sc. (Physics) and Ph. D. (Physics) programs that foster advanced research. These programs allow our students to be well acquainted with the advanced knowledge and skills that enable them to contribute to the development of diverse research fields, ranging from condensed matter physics to quantum physics, materials science, soft matter, and optics to high energy physics, astrophysics, and astronomy.
    • The department is renowned for its high-quality research output, with faculty and students consistently

      contributing to global scientific research in theoretical, computational, and experimental physics and related fields. As hinted above, our research spans multiple disciplines, with a particular focus on areas such as theoretical and applied condensed and soft matter physics, materials science, high energy physics, and

      astrophysics. Excellent experimental and computational research facilities and an astronomical observatory

      support our research activities. Collaborations with local and international institutions further enrich the research

      environment, creating valuable opportunities for innovation and advancement. It is no wonder that, over the years, our department has made significant contributions to the international physics community through publications and the organization of international conferences and regional meetings.

DEPARTING STAFF

Ms. Fadhila Al Mabsali , former Superintendent of the Physics Department and the College of Science, has been transferred to a new position at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

RETURNING STAFF

Dr. Rahma Al Harthi,Assistant Professor, got her PhD scholarship at the University of Leeds, UK, returned in April 2025.

SCHOLARSHIPS & OVERSEAS STUDIES

wasaVisitingProfessoratthe Open University, Milton Keymes, UK during August- Prof.HishamWidatallah
September 2025.

SABBATICAL LEAVE

None

PROMOTIONS

Dr.TariqM.Gholam was promoted to the rank of Professor.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

Anarticle published fromthe departmentof physics has been selected as a cover story in the Journal of Physical Chemistry C (A prestigious journal of American Chemical Society, USA). It is authored by Haifa Almamari (PhD student), Issam Ali, Ravindra Pandey (IIT-Roorkee, India) and Srinivasa Rao Varanasi (Corresponding Author).

VISITING CONSULTANTS & PART-TIME INSTRUCTORS

Spring 2025:

1. Prof. Mohamed Elamin Elzain, PhD (Birmingham University, UK, 1978) (Visiting Consultant)
2. Prof. Kazim Yavuz Eksi, PhD (Bogazici University, Physics Department, Istanbul, Turkey, 2003). (Visiting Consultant)
3. Prof. Mohammad Reza Ejtehadi, PhD (Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran, 1998). (Visiting Consultant)
4. Prof. Haikel Al Jelassi, PhD (Lieu: Laboratoire Aimé Cotton-CNRS- University of Paris-Sud FRANCE,1980). National Center for Nuclear Sciences and Technologies, 2020 Sidi Thabet Tunis Tunisia. (Visiting Consultant)

Fall 2025:

1. Prof. Mohamed Elamin Elzain, PhD (Birmingham University, UK, 1978) (Visiting Consultant)
2. Dr. Santhosh Mogurampally, PhD (IISC Bangalore, India,2013), Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, India (Visiting Consultant)
3. Mr.Khalid Khamis Aljahwari, MSc, (Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman) (Part-Time Instructor)
4. Ms. Al Maha Al Habsi, MPhys, (University of Liverpool, UK, 2021) (Part-Time Instructor)

CURRICULUM

• BScProgram
  TheCurriculum Committee
  1. Conducted weekly meetings to finalize the comprehensive five-year review of the Physics program, ensuring it remains competitive for the 2026–2030 period.
  2. As part of this review, the Committee ensured departmental compliance with the OAAA Oman Qualifications Framework (OQF) standards. In support of this effort, the Department Curriculum Committee (DCC) conducted three departmental workshops to train faculty on completing the newly formatted course outlines and OQF Listing Forms.
• Postgraduate Program
  Thefollowingpostgraduate students have graduated during 2025 in the terms indicated:

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

• Dr. AbeyIssachas research collaborationwith Prof. Richard Hildner from Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
• Dr. Mohammed Souier has been collaborating with Pr. Matteo Chiesa (The Arctic University of Norway) on “simulation of scanning probe spectroscopy", and with Pr. Mohamed Bououdina (Prince Sultan University) on “photocatalytic activity of nanomaterials”.

• Dr. Sumesh Sofin is collaborating with Prof. Hanchun Wu, (Beijing Institute of Technology, China) on first-principles density functional theory (DFT) studies of oxide materials.
• Dr. Afsal Manekkathodi is collaborating with Prof. Tzu-Chien Wei (National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan) Prof.Nouar Tabet (University of Sharjah, United Arabic Emirates.) Prof. Vinod Erkara Madhavan, (National Institute of technology, Calicut, India) on Perovskite solar cell materials.
• Dr. Noor alhuda Al Saqri has established a one-year Research Collaboration Agreement with Prof. Mohamed Henini from the University of Nottingham, UK, starting in August 2025. The agreement includes the transfer of advanced semiconductor research equipment to the SQU Semiconductor Laboratory, valued at approximately a quarter of a million OMR, to support semiconductor research activities. As part of this agreement, Prof. Mohamed Henini visited SQU from 16–19 October 2025 to provide expert support for the installation and commissioning of new semiconductor characterization equipment.
• Dr. Noor alhuda Al Saqri is collaborating with Dr. A. Khatab from Taibah University, Saudi Arabia, and Prof. Nourredine Sengouga from the University of Mohamed Khider, Algeria, on semiconductor nanostructures and quantum heterostructures.
• Dr. Srinivasa Rao Varanasi has been collaborating with Dr. Ravindra Pandey, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, India on “Nanoparticle, protein interactions with lipid surfaces”
• Prof. Mudhahir Al-Ajmi is collaborating with Particle Cosmology group at Sussex University, UK.
• Prof. Hisham Widatallah, Prof. Abbasher Gismeseed, Prof. Ahmed Al Rawas and Dr. Fatma Al Ma’mari arecollaborating with Dr. E. A. and Dr. E. C. Crabb at the Open University, UK and Dr. O. Cespedes (Leeds University, UK).

STAFF TRAINING

• Dr. Srinivasa Rao Varanasi participated in a Professional Development Program organized by SQU – Center for Educational Technologies (CET) entitled Enhancing Teaching and Learning through Online Course Design, Artificial Intelligence, and Immersive Technologies (2025)
• Prof. Nazife Koca participated in several workshops organized by CETL at SQU including
  Artificial Intelligence in Education and Artificial Intelligence in Research (Spring 2025)
• Prof. Nazife Koca participated in a Professional Development Program organized by SQU – Center for Educational Technologies (CET) entitled Enhancing Teaching and Learning through Online Course Design, Artificial Intelligence, and Immersive Technologies (2025)
• All academic staff participated in workshops on Artificial Intelligence in education and research, organized by the Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL, 2025)

STUDENT TRAINING & INDUSTRY PLACEMENT

NEW EQUIPMENT/BOOKS

• Two 850 Universal Interface, Model (UI-5000), USA, total Cost (1457 OMR)
• Two Spectroscopy Amplifier, Model (N968), total cost (3605 OMR)
• Digital Storage Oscilloscope, Model (DHO 1204), Total Cost (1117 OMR)
• Two Combi B Sensor S, Model (5240381), total price (662 OMR)

COMMUNITY SERVICE

• Dr. Abey Issac and Dr. Sumesh Sofin R.G organized safety seminar for physics students in spring and fall semesters 2025.
• Dr. Abey Issac and Dr. Sumesh Sofin R.G organized two workshops for physics students on Scientific Poster Making and Paper Writing in November 2025.
• Prof. Emeritus Mehmet Koca delivered two college seminars as part of the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology:
  1. “Quantum Physics and Quantum Technologies”- 27 April 2025 (ii) “A
     Journey to the Quantum World”- 10 December 2025
• Prof. Nazife Koca delivered an invited seminar entitled Mathematics in Islamic Art for school students,

contributing to the celebration of the International Day for Women in Mathematics. The seminar was organized by the Oman Mathematics Committee and was held on May 12, 2025 at SQU.

• The Semiconductor Group provided scientific and technical support to the student project “Smart Eye Dressings for Eye Injury Patients” from Al-Amal School, which won third place nationally in Oman in November 2025 and qualified for the final round of the Fadia Al-Saad Scientific Innovation Competition in Kuwait (May 2026).
• Dr. Srinivasa Rao Varanasi has organized a seminar delivered by Dr. Ravindra Pandey on10th December 2025 on “From lipid membranes to covalent organic frameworks: SFG insights into interfacial organization”
• Dr. Turkiya Al-Shahumi participated in the central training camp for preparing students who represented the Sultanate in the Asian Physics Olympiad. The training was held from 16–22 April 2025.

• Dr. Turkiya Al-Shahumi and Mr. Hamyar Al-Shukaili conducted an educational tour for students and academic staff from Al Buraimi University on 09 July 2025, including visits to the Materials Science Research Laboratory and Physics Laboratory 2, with demonstrations of equipment and an X-ray experiment.

• Dr. Hajir Al-Hamrashdi, Dr. Turkiya Al-Shahumi, and Ms. Sheikha Al-Hajri participated in the central training camp for students representing the Sultanate in the International Nuclear Science Olympiad (22–23 July 2025), where the students won one silver and two bronze medals.

• The physics department organized a workshop on X-ray Diffraction Data Analysis using the Rietveld Refinement Method for faculty and students of the College of Science on 8 October 2025.

• Dr. Turkiya Al-Shahumi participated in the central training camp for preparing students who represented the Sultanate in the International Junior Science Olympiad, held from 6–15 November 2025, where the students won one bronze medal.

• On 17 April 2025, the Physics Department’s research committee hosted its inaugural Physics Research Retreat. The event was designed to foster collaboration among researchers and showcase the department’s growing research capabilities.

PHYSICS STUDENTS GROUP (SPG) ACTIVITIES

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

Widatallah, Hisham Mohammed

PhD (Nanjing, China, 1996)

Department of Statistics

OVERVIEW
The Department of Statistics (DOS) came into existence in the year 2018 following an executive order of

his excellency, the Vice Chancellor, that resulted in the splitting of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics (DOMAS) into two departments, the Department of Mathematics and the Department of Statistics.

The department offers programs leading to the award of Bachelor of Science in Statistics (BSc. Statistics), Master of Science in Statistics (MSc. Statistics), and Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics (PhD. Statistics). A general minor in Statistics is also offered to students of other majors at the College of Science.

All these programs were in place prior to the existence of the department, so a bit of history is in order. The bachelor's degree in Statistics started in 1993, together with degrees in Mathematics and Computer Science, under the Department of Mathematics and Computing (DOMAC). The Department of Computer Science became a separate department in September 1995, and DOMAC became the Department of Mathematics and Statistics (DOMAS). The other statistics programs that started under the DOMAS are the minor in Health Statistics (1998), Master of Science in Statistics (1999), and PhD in Statistics (2010).

Currently, the Department of Statistics has 14 staff members and over six hundred student registrations per semester. The department offers programs leading to BSc., MSc., and PhD. in Statistics. A general minor in Statistics is offered to students of other majors in the College of Science. The department is committed to quality teaching, research, and community service. It aspires to:

1. Fulfill the role of Sultan Qaboos University as the national house of expertise in the area of Statistics,
2. Open wider doors for interdisciplinary research of direct relevance to Oman,
3. Impact and invigorate SQU Statistics academic programs,
4. Pursue cutting-edge research,
5. Enhance statistical consulting and community services involvement, and
   Inspire new ways to work together with the community.

The Department of Statistics provides two service courses: Probability for Engineering (STAT2103) for the BSc students in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Statistics Data Science (STAT6600) for the MSc students in the Data Science and Machine learning program in the Computer Science department. Further, a part of our degree program is taken by other majors with a Statistics background deemed necessary by their departments.

Members of the Departmental Main Committees

HoD Office

Moh’d Taleb Alodat
Associate Prof., HoD
(PhD, McGill
University,
Canada)

Ms. Afrah Alsalmani
Coordination&Follow-Up &
Archives Specialist

BSc Curriculum

Dr. Iman Al Hasani

Dr. Moh’d T. Alodat

Dr. Ronald Wesonga

Dr. Amadou Sarr

Dr. Khidir Abdelbasit

Dr. Muhamed Farooq

Examinations

Prof. M Mazharul Islam

Examination Appeal

Prof. M Mazharul Islam

Dr. Manoj Kumar

Dr. Mounir Arfi

Dr. Amadou Sarr

Dr. F. Ababneh

PG Coordinator & Research

Prof. M. Mazharul Islam

HIGHLIGHTS

• INTERNATIONAL ACCREDITATION
  BSc Statistics Programme Re-Accredited by ASIIN (September 2024 – September 2029) The BSc Statistics programme has been successfully re-accredited by ASIIN for a further five years, confirming that the programme meets international standards in statistical education and continues to align with Sultan Qaboos University’s academic quality objectives.
• NEW ACADEMIC PROGRAMME

  ATA SCIENCE DEGREE PLAN APPROVED (2025–2030)
  BSC D

  A new BSc in Data Science degree plan has been officially approved by the University Council and will be implemented in the College of Science starting from the academic year 2025/2026, supporting emerging needs in data science and analytics.

• UNIVERSITY GRANT FOR DATA SCIENCE ANALYTICS LAB TheDepartment ofStatistics Receiveda Grantto Upgrade theLab, Equipping with Hardware and Software that Accommodate Emerging Technologies, as well as Establish the Data Science Analytics Lab. Implementation has Commenced With Planning and Design, and is Expected to Continue Throughout the Year 2025.

WORLD STATISTICS DAY 2025

The Department of Statistics, College of Science at Sultan Qaboos University, in collaboration with the GCC Statistical Centre (GCC-Stat), celebrated World Statistics Day 2025 under the global theme “Empowering data-driven decision making.” The event brought together students, faculty members, and professionals from across the Sultanate to emphasize the vital role of statistics in evidence-based policy and innovation.

The program featured welcoming remarks by the Head of the Department, insightful talks by experts in related fields, and GCC-Stat’s contribution to the live-streamed celebration of World Statistics Day by the United Nations. Participants also explored student poster presentations and digital exhibits showcasing real-world applications of statistical methods in Oman.

The event received highly positive feedback for its strong organization, engaging sessions, and professional atmosphere. Attendees described it as “excellent,” “fantastic,” and “wonderfully organized,” appreciating both the content and the hospitality. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate, with one remarking, “I came to present something but ended up learning new things. It is always intriguing to be in SQU.” Another participant commended the “great organization and hospitality” and thanked the team behind the event for their efforts. Suggestions received through the feedback platform also highlighted participants’ enthusiasm for continued collaboration.

The success of the event reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to advancing statistical literacy and fostering a data-driven culture that supports national and regional development goals.

BSC CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT:

• BSc Statistics Degree Plan (2026-2030):
  TheBScStatistics Degree Plan (2026–2030) has been approved by the College Board. Key updates

  includerestructuring the final year project into two semesters instead of one, making industrial trainingmandatory, and introducing a new course in official statistics.

• Collaboration with Experts from Public and Private Sectors:

  The Department engaged several experts from the public and private sectors to support teaching and practical training.

  In STAT5539 (Fall 2025), guest sessions were delivered by:

  • Mr. Hamdan Al-Na’imi (Planning & Statistics Department – SQU) on Exploratory Data Analytics using Excel
  • Mr. Bader Al-Kalbani (Planning & Statistics Department – SQU) on Google Looker Studio
  • Mr. Said Al-Kharosi (Mala’a) on Data Visualization using Power BI

In STAT4436: Survey Methodology (Spring 2025), Mr. Hamed Al Mashrafi, CEO of DATA MINING, conducted two practical lab sessions on using the Estebyan platform for survey data collection and analysis, providing students with exposure to real-world data collection in Oman.

• Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Emerging Technology:

  The curriculum of the BSc and MSc Statistics programmes continues to incorporate innovation, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies through several core and specialised courses. Applied and project-based courses such as STAT5539 (Data Analysis), STAT5501–5502 (Projects in Statistics I & II), STAT4436 (Survey Methodology), STAT4470 (Official Statistics), and STAT3331 (Operations Research) emphasize real-world problem solving, use of national and industry data, and development of data-driven solutions.

  The updated BSc Statistics Degree Plan (2026–2030) and the newly approved BSc in Data Science further strengthen the curriculum through mandatory Industrial Training, the introduction of Official Statistics, and new courses such as Data Monetization, supporting value creation from data and engagement with professional practice.

  Emerging technologies are embedded across courses, including STAT2100/STAT2101 (data visualization and reproducible reporting), STAT4441 (Statistical Learning), STAT4443 (Advanced Programming with R), and advanced MSc courses that integrate machine learning, statistical computing, simulation, and modern analytical platforms. These components ensure that the curriculum remains aligned with contemporary developments in statistics and data science.

POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMS

• OQF LISTING
  • MS

    CIN STATISTICS

Following the submission of the MSc Statistics OQF listing application in January 2025, feedback was received from the OQF reviewers. All comments and required revisions were addressed, and the updated application was resubmitted through the Quality Assurance Office for final consideration under the Oman Qualifications Framework (OQF).

PD THESIS COMPLETED

• MASTER'S ANDH
  • Master: N/A

    PhD:

  • AbirBilal Al Khabouri (ID=33859)
    • Thesis Title: TheElliptical Process for Regression with Applications -Progress: Defended thesis withminor corrections
      -Supervisor: Moh’d Taleb Suleiman Alodat
      -Co-Supervisor: Dr. Amadou Sarr

DATA SCIENCE ANALYTICS LAB (DSAL):

• Data Vista:
  On 24 April 2025, the Data Science Analytics Lab (DSAL), Department of Statistics, College of Science, Sultan Qaboos University, officially launched the Data Vista series with its first session titled “Empowering Urban Planning with Data.” The session was organized in collaboration with the Oman National Spatial Strategy Office (ONSS), Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, as part of national efforts supporting Oman Vision 2040.

  The opening session highlighted the role of spatial data, statistical analysis, and advanced analytics in supporting smart and sustainable urban planning. Contributions from ONSS experts and Rihal Company addressed the use of data-driven tools in urban development and the evolving skills required in the data era.

  Data Vista is a DSAL knowledge initiative designed to demonstrate practical applications of data science and to strengthen collaboration between academia, government, and industry through regular scientific engagements and discussions on emerging data-driven trends.

Active learning & Teaching (DAT)

Following the baseline survey conducted in 2023 to assess academic staff knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to active learning in the Department of Statistics, additional follow-up surveys were conducted in 2024 and 2025 to monitor progress and evaluate the adoption of active learning strategies. The findings indicate increased awareness and gradual integration of active learning components across several statistics courses, including interactive classroom activities, formative assessments, and real-world data applications. In addition, other tasks were held as follows:

• An interactive workshop with open discussions with staff on the theme “Transforming Teaching with Active Learning Strategies” led by Dr. Hameed Sulaiman the 20th March 2025 organized by the Committee for Active Learning at the Department of Statistics.
• Analysis of the baseline survey (AY 2023-2024) and disseminating the results at the Department Board Meeting
• Conducted another Survey for the AY 2024-2025. Data Collection is completed.
• Data were collected from students through the Annual Satisfaction Survey for Students in Statistics, and through the semi-annual meeting of the Staff-Student Liaison Committee (SSLC).
• Meeting with the VR team to design AR/ VR material for the students to be included in the curriculum of the statistics major.
• Continuous discussion through the Department Board (DB) regarding AL implementations and updates.

ORIENTATION DAY FOR STATISTICS STUDENTS

The Choice of Major Committee at the Department of Statistics, College of Science, Sultan Qaboos University successfully organised the Orientation Day for Statistics Students on Thursday, 4 December (Week 12), from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., at the College of Science Seminar Room. The event targeted newly admitted students majoring in Statistics and aimed to provide them with a smooth academic and social transition into the department. The program featured inspiring success stories from outstanding senior students, as well as student research and extracurricular experiences that demonstrated how engagement beyond the classroom enhances academic and professional development.

The event focused on motivating new students, encouraging academic excellence and commitment from the beginning of their studies, and strengthening their sense of belonging to the department. It also served as an important departmental initiative to promote active participation in academic and student activities, reflecting the department’s continuous commitment to supporting students’ growth and achievement.

DEPARTING STAFF

• N/A

RETURNING STAFF

• Amani Al Rubkhi (Lecturer) achieved her PhD in University of Strathclyde, UK, and returned back as an Assistant Professor at SQU

APPOINTMENTS

PROMOTIONS

• N/A

SCHOLARSHIPS & OVERSEAS STUDIES

• N/A

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

• Dr. Iman Al-Hasani received the Best Teacher Award during the 25th University Day Ceremony.

OFFICIAL MISSIONS AND REPRESENTATION

• Dr. Iman Al-Hasani participated as a member of Sultan Qaboos University’s official delegation in the Global University Presidents Forum 2025 and the International Forum on Higher Education, held in Hangzhou, China, from 7–10 November 2025. The SQU delegation was led by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Community Service and included representatives from the University. The participation aimed to strengthen international academic collaboration, explore developments in higher education and artificial intelligence, and expand partnerships with leading global universities in support of Oman Vision 2040.

SEMINARS AND CONFERENCES

• Prof. M Mazharul Islam

  Presented a paper entitled “Child discipline practices at home and parental attitudes toward physical punishment of children in Bangladesh” at the Annual Conference of
  the Population Association of America, held in Washington DC, USA, April 10 - 13, 2025.

  Delivered an invited talk to celebrate World Population Day on July 10, 2025, at the invitation of the Department of Population Sciences, Dhaka University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

• Dr. Iman Al Hasani

  Delivered an invited talk during the World Statistics Day 2025 celebration at the College of Engineering, National University of Science and Technology, in October 2025. The talk, titled “Open Data for Everyone: Innovation, Trust and Public Value,” highlighted the role of open data in promoting innovation, strengthening public trust, and enhancing the public value of data-driven decision-making.

  Participated as a virtual delegate in the 4th Annual Forum for Research in MENA, held in Sharjah, UAE, from 20–23 October 2025.

• Dr. Ronald Wesonga

  Delivered an invited speaker talk titled "Enhancing Diabetes Management Through Analysing HbA1c Trajectories in T1DM Patients Using Flexible Trend Estimation Techniques" at the 51st Annual Conference of the ISPAD in Montreal, Canada, 5th – 8th November 2025.

  Delivered an invited speaker talk titled "A Latent State Model for Chronic Disease Monitoring and Risk Stratification" at the 7th EADSG Congress and Scientific Sessions 2025 in Kampala, Uganda, 29th - 31st May 2025.

Delivered a Webinar titled “Responsible AI: Foundations and Data Ethics” on Skilling Africa for the AI Era, organised and funded by the Union of African Population Studies (UAPS), East African Statistics Institute (EASI), and Population Social Development Institute (PSDI) on 31 October 2025.

• Dr. Manoj Kumar

  Delivered InvitedTa lk on” Refined Two-Parameter Estimator Based on Jackknife and Bootstrap Resampling Approaches”, 11th International Conference on Statistics for the Twenty-First Century (ICSTC 2025), Department of Statistics, University of Kerala, India, Dec 16 - 19, 2025 Delivered an invited talk on” Improved Estimation in Inverse Gaussian Regression Model using Jack-knifed Generalized Two Parameter Estimators”, (WSTA 2025), Department of Statistics, University of Kerala, India, June 29 - July 2, 2025.

Chaired Session in 11th International Conference on Statistics for the Twenty-First Century (ICSTC 2025), Department of Statistics, University of Kerala, India, Dec 16 - 19, 2025.

• Dr. Mounir Arfi

  “A note

  • Attended theICAS25conferenceinItalyasaspeakeranddeliveredatalkon

    th th
    on a class of estimates for the regression function”. Bologna (Italy), Apr 25 – 27 , 2025

  • Conducted research to investigate the rate of convergence for a kernel estimate of the regression function, under specific conditions for the observed process, and a paper was submitted to an international journal
    Conducted research to investigate the rate of convergence for a class of estimates for the
  • regression function, under specific conditions for the observed process, and a paper was submitted to an international journal
• Dr. Maryam Al Alawi
  • As part of the TWAS-DFG Cooperation Visit Programme, delivered a research seminar entitled “Emerging frameworks in Functional Data Analysis” within the weekly seminar series of the Department of Statistics and Econometrics, University of Cologne, on 10 July 2025.
• Dr.Amadou Sarr

  -Presented a paper entitled “Fitting the Length of Stay Data: Case Study in
  Intensive Care Unit at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital In Oman”
  Atthe International Conference on Mathematics, Statistics, and Applications (ICMSAPP-25), held in Medina, Saudi Arabia, September 5-6, 2025.

• Dr. Muhammad Farooq
  • Presented a paper entitled “Machine Learning Driven Detection of Regional Graph Anomalies in Autism Spectrum Disorder” at the 22nd International Conference on Statistical Sciences, held at the University of Sargodha, Pakistan.
  • Delivered an invited speaker talk titled “Support vector machines: foundation, relevance and future directions” at 2the 2nd International Conference on Statistical Sciences, held at the

    University

    of

    Sargodha,

    Pakistan.

• Dr. Moh’dAlodat
  • Presented a seminar entitled” On the Asymptotic Behavior of Nonparametric Estimators for Distribution of Functionals”. Department of Statistics, Oct 1, 2025.

Weekly seminars were delivered to staff and students either face-to-face or via webinar

VISITING CONSULTANTS & PART-TIME INSTRUCTORS

The Department received the following academic staff as Visiting Consultants:

Visiting Consultant

• Dr. Khidir Abdulbasit, PhD 1980, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne University, UK Applied Statistics and Design of Experiments
• Dr. Ahmad Al-hadhrami, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA Ph.D. in Biostatistics, June 2010
• Dr. Razmi, PhD in Applied Statistics 2015, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka.

Part-Time

• Dr. Moza Al Bulushi, Sultan Qaboos University, Oman, PhD in Statistics – Field Multilevel Modelling, 2015.
• Dr. Yasir Al Harthi, University of Wollongong, Australia, PhD in Mathematics and Applied Statistics – Modelling Student Flows in the Omani Higher Education System, 2021.

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

1. Prof. M Mazharul Islam

• Collaborated with Dr. Ahbab Fasle Rabbi from the Department of Population Sciences at Dhaka University, Bangladesh, to conduct a study on the impact of COVID-19 on the reproductive behavior of married women in Bangladesh.
• Conducted interdisciplinary collaborative research with Prof. Abdullah Al Asmi, Dr. Watfa Al- Mamari, and Dr. Ahmed B. Idris from the College of Medicine and Health Science, Sultan Qaboos University. The outcome of this collaboration was the publication of 3 papers in top-tier health journals in 2025.
• Conducted collaborative research with Prof. Shahjahan from the Daffodil International University (DIU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, to investigate the “Patients’ Satisfaction and Quality of Careat the Community Clinics in Bangladesh.

2. Dr. Moh’d Alodat

• Hasconductedresearch collaborations with Dr. Dareen Al Omari from La Trobe University, Australia. Theresearch was on the asymptotic theory of some nonparametric estimators of overlapping coefficients. This discussion is going through the Webinar meetings.
• has conductedaresearch collaboration with Professor Ayman Baklizi from Qatar University. The research wasabout improving the parameter estimation using further Binomial information obtained by theranked set sampling.
• has conductedaresearch collaboration with Professor Moh’d Al Rawwash from Yarmouk University, Jordan. The research was about proposing a new type of Non-Gaussian Process for Regression.
  Dr. Manoj Kumar
• Collaborated with Professor Vikas Bist, Department of Mathematics, Panjab University,

3.

Chandigarh, India, Dr. Pragya Goyal, Department of Statistics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India and Dr. Faisal Ababneh on paper entitled,”Selection of Tuning Parameter based upon Adjusted Coefficient of Determination and Generalized Cross Validation”, published in Communications in Statistics-Theory and Methods, 1ssue 12,, 2025

• Collaborated with Professor Vikas Bist, Department of Mathematics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, Dr. Bavneet K Sidhu, Department of Statistics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, Dr. Manoj Kumar, University of Delhi, India on paper entitled,” A New Modified Generalized Two Parameter Estimator for Linear Regression Models”, published in Communications in Statistics- Theory and Methods, Vol. 54, Issue 10, 2025.
• Collaboratedwith Professor Vikas Bist, Department of Mathematics, Panjab University, Chandigarh,India, Dr. Pragya Goyal, Department of Statistics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, and Dr.Faisal Ababneh on a paper entitled,” A New General Biased Estimator in Linear MeasurementError Model”, Communications in Statistics - Theory and Methods, Vol. 54, Issue 10, 2025.

• Collaborated with Dr. Shukla, K. K., Dr.S Gupta, Noida International University, India., Professor M. Islam, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman, on a paper entitled,” Predicting Sex from Hand Dimensions using Statistical Models: A Cross-Sectional Study of Medical Students”, International Journal of Statistics in Medical Research, 14, 517-525, 2025.

4. Dr. Ronald Wesonga

• Visited the Schoolof Statistics and Planning, Makerere University, and the East African Statistics Instituteduring the period July through August 2025, and held discussions on the possibility of developing academic research collaboration. The discussions resulted in a paper, "Data-driven Clustering of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: Patterns from the Uganda
  2023 NCD STEPS Survey". He also gave a series of training seminars associated with Statistical Data Science.
• Collaborated with Prof. David Guwatudde of Makerere University, Prof. Silver Bahendeka, and Staff at the Ministry of Health, Uganda, on the World Health Organization (WHO) supported STEPwise approach to NCD risk factor surveillance (STEPS) National Representative Survey. As a result, a paper titled "Changes in the Prevalence of NCDs Risk Factors", has been accepted for publication.
• Collaborated in an Ongoing National Pneumonia Research with Dr. Salah and Dr. Faryal of the Royal Hospital, Oman. A Four-Year ongoing study, currently collecting data on patients with Diabetes comorbidities in Oman.
• Collaborated with Prof. Silver Bahendeka, and Staff at the Ministry of Health, Uganda, and Developed a Protocol on An Ongoing International Research, “The Health of a Population in Epidemiological Transition in Uganda (HOPIET-UG) A 5-Year Longitudinal Study on Non- Communicable Disease Dynamics and Risk Factors in Sheema District.”

5. Dr. Iman Al Hasani

• In collaboration with Prof. M. Arashi and his PhD student, Department of Statistics, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran, the paper “Restricted Bayesian Lasso Regression with Inequality Constraints” was published in IEEE Access (2025).
• Dr. Iman Al Hasani and Dr. Brahim Benaid have conducted research collaborations with Prof. Mhamed Eddahbi from King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudia. The topic of research was on the number of regimes of the Volatility in the Muscat Security Market Index in Oman using Markov Switching GARCH models.

6. Dr. Brahim Benaid

• Dr. Brahim Benaid and Dr. Iman Al Hasani have conducted research collaborations with Prof. Mhamed Eddahbi from King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudia. The topic of research was on the number of regimes of the Volatility in the Muscat Security Market Index in Oman using Markov Switching GARCH models.
• Dr. Brahim Benaid has conducted research collaborations with Prof. Hassan Bouzahir and Dr. Lahcen Boulaasair, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco. The topic of research was on the impact of two independent Gaussian white noises on the behavior of a stochastic epidemic model.

7. Dr. Amadou Sarr

• Collaborated with Prof. Silver Bahendeka, Martyrs University, Kampala, Uganda,
  The collaboration resulted in a paper titled "Survival of type 1 diabetes
  mellitus patients on disease control programme", a paper published in Q1 Journal

8. Dr. Maryam Al Alawi

• Project: Predictable

  Factors for Surface Data in IVS Datasets Grant: DFG–TWAS

  Cooperation Visit Programme Host: Department of Statistics and Econometrics, University of Cologne, Germany

• Thisproject focuses on developing an advanced predictive factor model for implied volatilitysurfaces (IVS) in financial markets. By decomposing volatility surfaces into low-dimensional functional spaces, the research identifies key latent factors influencing market dynamics.The framework combines Functional Data Analysis (FDA) and eigen-decomposition methodologies to enhance estimation efficiency and forecasting performance. The model is evaluated using extensive S&P 500 options data spanning 2009–2021.

9. Dr. Faisal Ababneh

• Conducted research collaborations with Professor Vikas Bist, Department of Mathematics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.and Pragya Goyal, Department of Statistics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. The work was based on a new general biased estimator in linear measurement error model.
• Conducted research collaborations with Professor AM Razmy, Department of Mathematical Sciences, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka. The work was based on the computation of False Alarm for Existing Shewhart Joint Monitoring Schemes.
• Conducting research collaborations with Professor Vikas Bist, Department of Mathematics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, and Pragya Goyal, Department of Statistics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. The work is based on the selection of tuning parameters based upon adjusted coefficient of determination and cross validation technique.
• Conducting research collaborations with Professor Vikas Bist, Department of Mathematics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, and Bavneet K Sidhu, Department of Statistics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. The work is based on a generalized two-parameter estimator in the inverse Gaussian regression model.

10. Dr. Muhammad Farooq

• Collaborated with Dr. Muhammad Ali Raza and Tahir Nawaz of GC University Faisalabad, Pakistan, Muhammad Ateeq Tahir, Narxoz Univeristy Kazakstan and Sajjad Haider Bhatti, University of Punjab Pakistan on paper entitled,”Design and Implementation of an EWMA Control Chart for Zero-Inflated Count Data in High-Quality Processes”, published in Quality and Reliability Engineering International, 2025.
• Collaborated with Dr. Noor Juenjo and their team of Sultan Qaboos University Hospital on paper entitled “OUtcomes of Laparoscopic Versus Open Pyeloplasty in Adult Population Single Center Study From Oman”published in University Medical Journal in 2025.

STAFF TRAINING

• MANDATORY TRAINING :AI IN TEACHING AND RESEARCH
  • Aspart of institutional professionaldevelopmentrequirements, faculty membersattended mandatory training on the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and research.
  • 100% of department faculty completed the required training offered by theUniversity during 2025.
• INDIVIDUAL TRAINING ATTENDED
  • Dr. Iman Al-Hasani:

    ■ ABCs of AI: Redefining Possibilities, 18 February 2025

    ■ Unlocking AI’s Full Potential for Government and Public Services in Oman Organized by: Trifork SPC in collaboration with Datamount, 28 May 2025

    ■ Summer School for Teaching Faculty: Powerful Intelligences – The Fusion of AI & EI in Higher Education, 20–25 July 2025

    ■ Astrolabe: Active Learning & Outcome-Based Learning Initiative, 3–4 October 2025

    ■ Anees hasbeen trained on"Google Looker Studio", February 18, 2025

  • Maryam Al Alawi

    ■ Attendedtheworkshop titles: “Teaching Entrepreneurship: Empowering

    EducatorstoInstill an Entrepreneurial Mindset in the Next Generation of Graduates,”jointly organized by the Center for Innovation and Leadership (CLICKS)and TUM International (TUMint) based in Germany, andheld at Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman in 23 and 24 April 2025.

• TRAINING AND WORKSHOPS DELIVERED BY FACULTY
  • Dr. Iman Al-Hasani delivered the following training under the Makeen Bootcamp – Data Science and AI Stream, organized by the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology in cooperation with Code Academy:

MASTERING LYX: A W ORKSHOP FOR EFFICIENT DOCUMENT CREATION

The Department of Statistics organized a specialized workshop titled “Mastering LYX: A Workshop for Efficient Document Creation”, presented by Dr. Amani Al-Rubkhi on 4 March (Week 5) from 11:20 AM to 12:40 PM at Resource Room 0220. The workshop was designed for Final Year Project (Part 1) students, with a total of 11 students trained during the session. The aim was to equip participants with essential skills in LYX for preparing high-quality academic and research documents.

The session covered the fundamentals of LYX, including document structure, formatting techniques, inserting tables and figures, managing references, and producing professionally formatted reports. Practical demonstrations were provided to enhance students’ efficiency in writing and formatting their project reports in accordance with academic standards. The workshop contributed to improving students’ technical writing skills and supporting the quality of final year project documentation within the department.

STUDENT TRAINING & INDUSTRY PLACEMENT

A selected group of Statistics students participated in specialized training workshops organized by the GCC-STAT Centre:

• Statistical Data Storytelling Skills: From Data Analysis to Message Building (1-day workshop)

• The Seventh Regional Workshop on Estimating the Total Contribution of Tourism to the Economy (3-day regional workshop)

Training opportunities for students in the Summer of 2024 are tabulated below:

NEW EQUIPMENT

• Our two statistics labs are equipped with newly high-quality LED Monitors screens. They are used for lectures, presentations and other learning related activities.
• A multi-purpose room has been created in the department. The room will be used for active learning and other learning activities.
• One LED screen is mounted in the department lobby area and it is lively connected with the National Center for Statistics and Information. Live information is displayed daily.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Dr. Khidir Abdelbasit

• Member of the Gulf Cooperation Council Statistics Centre (GCC STAT) and SQU Joint/Technical Committee
• National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) and SQU Team

Dr. Iman Al Hasani

• Vice Chair: Data Science Analytics Lab (DSAL)
• Member: Royal Statistical Society (RSS), United Kingdom
• Reviewer for Journal of King Saud University – Science
• Reviewer for Frontiers in Applied Mathematics and Statistics
• Book reviewer for Fundamental Tools of Statistical Analysis Using R-Software, Taylor & Francis
• External examiner, BSc Statistics Programme, University of Nizwa
• Member, Institutional Project Management Committee for the Collaborative Research Program with Research Chairs, Sultan Qaboos University
• Member & Co-organizer: Global R User Group

Dr. Faisal Ababneh

• Chair of the Thesis Examining Committee of M.Sc. Thesis of Ms. AL Zahra Mohammed Zahir Al Shaqsi Department of Physics, Sultan Qaboos University. Thesis Title: Probing the Interaction between Bisphenol A (BPA) with Whey and Casein Proteins.
• Member of Sultan Qaboos University Staff Club Executive Committee.

Dr. Ronald Wesonga

• Chair: Data Science Analytics Lab (DSAL)
• Member: Royal Statistical Society (RSS), United Kingdom
• Member: International Statistical Institute (ISI), Netherlands
• Member: International Association of Statistical Computing (IASC), Netherlands
• Member: East African Statistics Institute (EASI), Uganda
• Associate Editor: Frontiers of Applied Mathematics and Statistics
• Associate Editor: Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal
• Reviewer: Sultan Qaboos University Journal of Science

Prof. M. Mazharul Islam

• Life Member, Bangladesh Statistical Association, Bangladesh
• Member: International Union of Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP), Paris, France
• Member: Population Association of America (PAA), USA
• Member: Bangladesh Association for the Advancement of Science, Bangladesh
• Member: Bangladesh Population Association
• Member, Asian Population Association
• Member: Editorial Board, South Asian Journal of Population and Health
• Member: Editorial Board, InternationalJournal of Community and Family Medicine
• Member: Editorial Board, International Journal of Statistics in Medical Research
• Reviewed 13 papers for different peer-reviewed Journals
• External Examiner of PhD Thesis, Murdoch University, Australia
• External Examiner of PhD Thesis, College of Medicine and Health Science, SQU

Dr. Moh’d Alodat

• Reviewer for the Jordan Journal of Mathematics and Statistics
• Review a paper for the Journal “Statistical Papers”
• Associate editor of Sultan Qaboos University Journal of Science
• Reviewer for the “Statistics and Computing”
• Reviewer for “Journal of King Saud University - Science”

Dr. Mounir Arfi

• Reviewer for the SQU Journal
• Reviewer for PJSOR (Pakistan Journal of Statistics and Operation Research)
• Focal Point at SQU for Oman Qualification Framework (OQF) Listing

Dr. Manoj Kumar

• Elected Member of the International Statistical Institute, The Netherlands.
• Life Member,Indian Society for Probability and Statistics (ISPS), India
• Reviewer forMathematical Reviews, American Mathematical Society (AMS), USA.
• Reviewer fortheJournal Frontiers in Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Switzerland.
• Reviewer forMathematical Modelling and Numerical Simulation with Applications, Turkey

Dr. Maryam Al Alawi

• Member: RoyalStatistical Society (RSS). United Kingdom.
• Fellow: University of Glasgow. United Kingdom.
• Member: Editorial Board. The Egyptian Statistical Journal (ESJ). Egypt. ●
  Focal Point at SQU for the National Center of Statistics and Information ●
  Member in KSA grant refereeing team-2025.

Dr. Brahim Benaid

• Member of the statistics association at Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
• Reviewer of research projects for the sukuk product for Islamic banking and finance.
• Member of a Panel Interview for 3 Candidates in the Computer Science Department. SQU

  Interview conducted on November 16, 2025.

Dr. Amadou Sarr

• Reviewer for the Journal of Statistical Theory and Practice, USA
• Reviewer for the Journal of Statistics and Probability Letters, Italy
• Reviewer for the Journal Frontiers in Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Switzerland.
• Reviewer for the Sultan Qaboos University Journal for Science, Oman.
• Member of a Panel Interview for 3 Candidates in the Computer Science Department. SQU

  Interview conducted on November 16, 2025.

Dr. Muhammad Farooq

• Reviewer: Pakistan Journal of Statistics, Pakistan
• Reviewer: Journal of Statistics, Pakistan
• Reviewer: Journal of Statistics and Practice
• Associate Editor: SCOPUA Journal of Applied Statistical Research
• Member: Data Visualization Society
• Member: Islamic Society of Statistical Sciences

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

• Dima Al Maawali participated in the 66th session of the London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF), representing the Sultanate of Oman.

• Rayyan Al Shereiqi was selected to participate in the Huawei Seeds for the Future programme, held in China from 18–26 October 2025. This selection reflects a valuable opportunity for academic and professional development in advanced digital and technological fields.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

• Stat Kids

The group also successfully organized Stat Kids for the second year, an initiative aimed at

introducing children of different ages to the world of statistics in a fun and interactive way.

Through creative activities, games, and experiments, the young participants learned fundamental

statistical ideas in a manner that was both educational and entertaining. The dedication and

enthusiasm of the statistics group was evident in the way they transformed complex concepts

into joyful learning experiences for the little ones.

• Data Night

In February 2025, the Statistics Student Group organized the “Data Night” event at the College

of Science. The event aimed to promote awareness and appreciation of statistics and data science

through an engaging and interactive environment. The program featured educational and

recreational activities designed to demonstrate how data can be transformed into meaningful

insights and real-world applications. The event attracted strong student participation and

provided an opportunity to foster interest in statistics, encourage peer learning, and strengthen

the sense of academic community.

• School Visit

In April 2025, the Department of Statistics organized a school outreach visit to Al Masharaq

School in collaboration with the Statistics student group, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote

statistical literacy and raise public awareness of the importance of statistics. The visit aimed to

introduce fundamental statistical concepts to school students through interactive and engaging

activities. In particular, concepts of the capture-recapture method were demonstrated using animal-

based games in a simple and enjoyable manner. The session concluded with interactive

discussions and practical statistical questions drawn from students’ daily life, helping them

recognize the relevance of statistics in real-world decision-making. This initiative reflects the

department’s commitment to community engagement, inspiring young learners, and fostering

early interest in statistics and data-driven thinking.

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

• Stat Kids

The group also successfully organized Stat Kids for the second year, an initiative aimed at

introducing children of different ages to the world of statistics in a fun and interactive way.

Through creative activities, games, and experiments, the young participants learned fundamental

statistical ideas in a manner that was both educational and entertaining. The dedication and

enthusiasm of the statistics group were evident in the way they transformed complex concepts

into joyful learning experiences for the little ones.

• Data Night

In February 2025, the Statistics Student Group organized the “Data Night” event at the College

of Science. The event aimed to promote awareness and appreciation of statistics and data science

through an engaging and interactive environment. The program featured educational and

recreational activities designed to demonstrate how data can be transformed into meaningful

insights and real-world applications. The event attracted strong student participation and

provided an opportunity to foster interest in statistics, encourage peer learning, and strengthen

the sense of academic community.

• School Visit

In April 2025, the Department of Statistics organized a school outreach visit to Al Masharaq

School in collaboration with the Statistics student group, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote

statistical literacy and raise public awareness of the importance of statistics. The visit aimed to

introduce fundamental statistical concepts to school students through interactive and engaging

activities. In particular, concepts of the capture-recapture method were demonstrated using animal-

based games in a simple and enjoyable manner. The session concluded with interactive

discussions and practical statistical questions drawn from students’ daily life, helping them

recognize the relevance of statistics in real-world decision-making. This initiative reflects the

department’s commitment to community engagement, inspiring young learners, and fostering

early interest in statistics and data-driven thinking.

MEMBERS OF THE DEPARTMENT

Central Analytical and Applied Research Unit (CAARU)

Administration

Sahim AL Ghafri
Head of CAARU

Contacts

Mailing Address:

Central Analytical & Applied
Research Unit
College of Science
Sultan Qaboos University
PO Box: 36, Postal Code: 123
Al-Khoudh Muscat,
Sultanate of Oman

Tel Number: (+968) 2414681/6802
Fax Number: (+968) 24146810
Email: [email protected]
https://www.squ.edu.om/science/About/Units/CAARU

Overview

The CentralAnalytical and Applied Research Unit (CAARU) at Sultan

QaboosUniversity (SQU) serves as a premier hub for analytical excellence,
researchsupport, and technical training in Oman as well as beyond the
SultanateofOman. CAARU also extends its services to non-academic
entities,including governmental ministries and private sector organizations.
Equippedwith over ten state-of-the-art analytical instruments and supported
by a highlyqualified and dedicated team, CAARU provides comprehensive
multidisciplinary analytical support across a wide range of applications.
These include chemical, geochemical, and petrochemical analyses,
nanotechnology and materials science, molecular and cellular biology,
microbial identification, environmental and pharmaceutical studies, among
others. CAARU actively collaborates with researchers and students, offering
expert guidance in designing experimental plans, optimizing existing
methodologies, and developing novel approaches to achieve research
objectives. The unit also undertakes projects of high societal relevance, with
a focus on studies that address community and consumer needs.

CAARU actively contributes to community service by offering expert
consultancy and advanced analytical services to organizations and
Telephone & Fax: individuals. The unit also provides specialized training programs and hands-
on instrument demonstrations for students, graduates, and professionals.
This commitment has established CAARU as a premier training hub for both
Omani and international participants seeking to enhance their practical skills
and technical expertise in advanced instrumentation.

HIGHLIGHTS

TRAINING IN CAARU

In 2025, CAARU continued its commitment to training and capacity building by delivering a series of structured programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students. The Winter Training Program (13 January – 6 February) engaged 15 students in hands-on analytical techniques and laboratory workflows under expert supervision. Throughout the year, On-the-Job Training placements allowed students to gain practical experience and individualized mentoring, with participants completing internships ranging from August to December. The Summer Training Program (4–28 August) hosted 14 students, reinforcing practical skills in analytical research and laboratory operations. Collectively, these initiatives strengthened students’ technical competencies, research readiness, and professional development.

STAFF NEWS

• In 2025, Mr. Usama Al Suleimani joined CAARU as a new Omani staff member, officially resuming work on 9th March, following the completion of Mr. Sathish’s contract.
• Additionally, Ratiba Al Mueni and Asma Al Bahri are pursuing full-time PhD programs at Sultan Qaboos University, in the College of Agriculture and Marine Sciences and the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, respectively, enhancingCAARU’s research capacity and academic development.

CONCLUSIONS & PROPOSED 2026 PLAN

In 2025, CAARUstrengthened its role asakey analytical service provider within Sultan Qaboos University and for external stakeholders. Progress in operational performance, analytical capabilities, and stakeholder engagement led to increased service demand, research collaboration, and training activities.

Despite challenges related to instrument sustainability and funding, CAARU maintained high standards of quality and reliability, reinforcing confidence in its services and supporting future growth.

Future Plans for 2026:
Building on recent progress, CAARU will focus on sustainability, quality improvement, and strategic growth in 2026. The unit’s key priorities include:

1. Instrument Sustainability and Financial Support

   CAARU will seek a dedicated budget for urgent repairs, routine servicing, preventive maintenance, and necessary upgrades of critical instruments.

2. Advancement toward ISO 17025 Accreditation

   Efforts toward ISO 17025 accreditation will continue, reinforcing compliance with international quality standards and laboratory credibility.

3. Community Engagement and Visibility

   Marketing, outreach, and industrial engagement will be enhanced, alongside expanded participation in community activities, workshops, and events supported by a stronger social media presence.

4. Research Growth and Collaborative Initiatives

   CAARU will strengthen research collaborations with SQU and external partners, focusing on innovation and emerging analytical technologies.

5. Staff Development and Capacity Building

   Staff training, professional development, and internal knowledge-sharing activities will remain a priority to enhance technical capacity.

Life Science Unit

Unit Staff

Mr. Ahmed Al-Wahaibi
Head of Life Science Unit
Dr. Amina Al-Farsi
Herbarium Curator
Mrs. Thekra Al-Manthari
Herbarium Specialist
Mr. Abdulaziz Al-Mamari
Gardener

Unit Overview:

Sultan Qaboos University Botanic Garden

Introduction:

TheCollege of Science's dean's office approved the establishment of the Life

Science Unit in 2012. It is considered as a research service unit and contributes significantly to the documentation and preservation of Omani wild plants. In addition to offering consulting and collaborative services in the area of plant research and classification, the unit serves as a support facility for scientific research and teaching.

Vision:

• Contribute significantly to the preservation and sustainability of Oman's flora and fauna and become a documented center of expertise to fulfill the vision to protect Omani cultural heritage.

Mission:

• Emphasizing LSU as an area for conservation outside the natural habitats for scientific research, preservation, and exhibition for education.
• Establishing research facilities for the protection of plants in order to raise public awareness of their significance and promote constructive interactions with biodiversity.

Objective:

• Ourgoal is to promote and encourage the knowledge, appreciation, and conservation of nature's biodiversity via study and education. This will further the university's outreach, education, and research goals.

Contacts:

SultanQaboos University, College of Science, Life Science Unit
Tel.: (+968) 24142363 - Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.squ.edu.om/science/units/Life-Science-Unit

Highlights:

The following works have been performed in the Life Science Unit throughout the 2025 year:

Events:

• On October 30^th, The Life Sciences Unit celebrated Omani Agriculture Day,which falls on October 31st each year. The celebration included the distribution of numerous local seedlings along with garden products such as moringa oil and henna powder. The event was met with great enthusiasm and participation from university staff and students.
• On April 27^th , Dr. Mona bint Fahd Al Said, Vice President of the University for International Cooperation, honored LSU. This honor was in recognition of the Unit's cooperation and participation in various programs of the University's International Cooperation Office.
• On May 11-15^th , and as part of the cooperation program between Sultan Qaboos University and the Environment Authority, LSU implemented a training program for the employees of the Environment Authority with the aim of training them on the propagation of some local plants threatened with extinction, and enhancing national efforts in preserving plant diversity in the Sultanate.
• On October 6-7^th , LSU attended the Agro Agricultural Exhibition in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to learn about the latest developments and to become familiar with the latest technologies used in agriculture.
• On November 4^th , LSU held a meeting with the Natural History Museum on November 4th to discuss potential collaboration in the field of plants and related sciences. Several topics were addressed during the meeting, including: the exchange of plant specimens, the digital transformation and development of the herbarium's website, an initiative to identify and update specimens, and joint training workshops and courses. Both parties agreed to provide full support and ongoing cooperation.

Visits:

• On January 1st

  ,the botanic garden received a delegation from Saarland UniversityinGermany.

• On February 5th, LSU welcomed 77 students from the Russian Federation and South Korea. During the visit, they were introduced to the botanical garden and its various sections, and learned about its diverse plant life, including some of the most well-known Omani plants and their local uses. Following this, they were taken to the herbarium, where the herbarium supervisor provided a detailed explanation of the herbarium, methods for collecting and preserving plant specimens, and how to search for them on the website.
• On February 20^th , the Botanical Garden received a student delegation from Ludwig Maximilian University in Germany. During the visit, they were introduced to the garden, its various sections, the most prominent Omani plants, and some of their local uses.
• On April 17^th , LSU received students from the University of Nizwa. The purpose of the visit was to learn about the unit's role in environmental conservation. They were shown the botanical garden and given a presentation on herbarium techniques.
• On April 21^st , herbarium received employees from the National Records and Archives Authority. During the visit, a detailed explanation was given about the techniques for preserving plant specimens and the equipment used to maintain the archiving of the specimens.
• On October 15^th , the Botanical Garden welcomed 153 visitors from the delegation participating in the QS Arab Forum. During the visit, they were introduced to the various sections of the Botanical Garden and given a tour to learn about the most prominent Omani plants and their uses.

Teaching:

• The botanic garden participated in different courses in the college of science, the college of agriculture, and the college of education. Moreover, the botanic garden provided continuing sessions for pre-school students in the Child Care Center in SQU.
• From September 28^th to December 4^th , three students from the Biology Department received training in the fundamentals and techniques of herbarium management. The training program included: how to collect plant specimens, drying and freezing methods, scientific identification and classification of plants, data entry and formatting, pest and insect control of specimens, and sample scanning and archiving.
• During October, herbarium staff provided a demonstration of the methods and steps for collecting plant specimens to students in the Desert Biology course, enabling them to apply this knowledge during their field trips. Following this, the students were received in 10 groups (37 students) to examine their specimens, provide scientific identification, and offer a detailed explanation to each group about the fundamentals of plant classification, scientific and local names, habitats, uses, and how to archive them in the herbarium.

The general purpose of these courses’ visits was to introduce Omani wild plants and an explanation of the methods of preserving and classifying plants based on the plants’ phenotypic characteristics and the differences in the structures and patterns of leaves, flowers and fruits, which are the basic building blocks for classification and differentiation between families, genera and species. In addition, providing students with a lecture on how to collect plant samples and accompanying data in preparation for their field trips.

Unit Overview

IT ZONE

UNIT

Unit Staff

Ms. Asma Al Alawi
Head-fromlJuly2024

Ms. Abeer Al-Siyabi
ITTechnical Support

Acting Head -until July 2024

Ms. Raya Almawali
IT Technical Support

From from March 2025

Contacts
Mailing Address
ITZone Unit
College of Science
Sultan Qaboos University
PO Box: 36, Postal Code: 123 Al-
Khoudh
Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
Telephone & Fax:
Tel Number: (+968) 24141404/
24141406
Fax Number: (+968) 24413415
Email: [email protected]

Website:

http://www.squ.edu.om/science/un

its/IT-Zone

IT Zone, established in 2012, is a service unit that provides Information Technology (IT) services to College of Science community. Its mission is to provide high quality of IT services to the end-users and raise the awareness about ethics in IT. Its main objectives list includes: designing programs that satisfy the requirement of local end-users, providing a wide range of IT technical support for the local end-users, educating and training local users for better utilization of IT, and serving the community inside and outside SQU. The unit’s offices are located beside the College of Science Dean’s office. Members of the unit are (head of the unit & two support technicians )

HIGHLIGHTS

During the year 2025 :

• Enhance the visibiltiy of the College on Social Media plaforms
• Lead the project of purchasing new computer equipments required by the departments. The following Table show the details for 2025

Completed Activities

The unit conducted the following activities in 2025 :

• Collegewebsite (Arabic & English): The Unit keep updating and enriching college website contents in both languages.
• A total of 316 requests were completed in 2025 through the ITSM system by the technicians

Annual Research Report

Period: 1^st of January – 31^st of December 2025

Department of Biology

1. RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS AND BOOKS

1.AlJabri, Nawal, Aziz Al HabsiTahar BaOmer

,and Michael J. Barry. 2025. “Microplasticsand CopperAffect ZebrafishBehavior ,
and Responses to Predation Threat.” Archives of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology, ahead of print, September 25.

2. Al Riyami, N.A., Husband, J.S., Al Shihhi, A., Sivakumar, N., Al-Rasbi, N.K (2025). Self-assembly of Sm(iii) Schiff base complexes: crystal structure , luminescence and antibacterial inhibition activity. Crystengcomm 27(19 ,(pp. 3061–3074
3. Al Shehhi, A., Souissi, Y., Nair, A.S., Usmani, Z., Sharma, M., Sivakumar, N (2025) .Microbial lipid-based biodiesel production using wastewater: opportunities and challenges. Bioresources and Bioprocessing, 12(1), 70
4. Al-Siyabi, N., Al-Ansari, A., Abri, M.A.A., Sivakumar, N. (2025). Genomic insights into biosynthetic gene cluster diversity and structural variability in marine bacteria. Scientific Reports ,151).
5. Al-Siyabi, N., Al-Ansari, A., Leduc, A.O.H.C., Sivakumar, N. (2025). Complete genome sequence of Tenacibaculum mesophilum strain M-16, a marine bacterium from the sea of Oman with potential for zeaxanthin biosynthesis .Marine Genomics, 83-84, 101222 "
6. "Chibani K, Gherli H, Fan M. The role of blue light in plant stress responses: modulation through photoreceptors and antioxidant mechanisms. Front Plant Sci. 2025 May 16;16:1554281.
7. A. Al-Nadabi, H. Sulaiman (2025). Quantifying urban heat island using multiple data sources for planning a sustainable city in an arid climatic zone:Environment, Development and Sustainability .27 (3), 6683-6707.
8. Abumaali DA, Al-Hadidi SH, Ahmed T, Yaish MW et al., 2025. Exploring Protist Communities in the Rhizosphere of Cultivated and Wild Date Palms. Soil Systems 9, 79.
9. Al Hashmi S, Tahir RA, Sehgal SA. Network pharmacology-based identification of potential drug targets and bioactive compounds in Lycii Fructus (Gouqizi) for the therapeutics of Parkinson’s disease. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2025;16:1714071.

10. AL Khatri I.S.H, Ali H.E. and Yaish M.W. (2025). Influence of melatonin on salinity tolerance in cowpeas through mitigation of osmotic and oxidative stress. Plant Science Today 12(4(
11. AL Khatri I.S.H, Ali H.E. and Yaish M.W. (2025). Melatonin improves drought tolerance in Cowpea through growth modulation, antioxidant response, and ionic homeostasis, supporting sustainable agriculture. Environmental Research Communications 7 055019
12. Al Shuraiqi, Asma, and Michael J. Barry. 2025. “Sertraline Exposure Increases Boldness, Aggression, and Response to Predators of Arabian Killifish.” Environmental Biology of Fishes, ahead of print, September 16.
13. Al Shuraiqi, Asma, and Michael J. Barry. 2025. “Urban Stressors: Interactive Effects of Noise, Light Regime and Fluoxetine on Zebrafish Behavior.” Science of The Total Environment 972 (April): 179101.
14. Ali H.E. and Al-Wahibi A. (2025). High species diversity and biochar can mitigate drought effects in arid environments. Frontiers in Plant Science 16:1563585
15. Ali Z, Ayub A, Lin Y, Anis S, Khan I, Younas S, Tahir RA, Wang S, Li J. Lycium barbarum's diabetes secrets: A comprehensive review of cellular, molecular, and epigenetic targets with immune modulation and microbiome influence. Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis. 2025 May 1;15(5):101130.
16. Ali Z, Brottier ZR, Al-Khayri JM, Tahir RA, Al-Dalali S, Al-Dossary O, Alsubaie B, Almaghasla MI. Sun-aged red date vinegar-based beverage: integrated analysis of fermentation, sensory, volatile, and bioactive properties. Food Chemistry: X.

21. Bover, P., Brito, J., Castellanos, F. X., Cuéllar Soto, E., Hutterer, R., Alfaro- Ibáñez, M. P., Martín González, M. E., Tammone, M. N., & Pardiñas, U. F. J. (2025). Revisiting the taxonomy and biogeography of the largest sigmodontine rodent (Rodentia, Cricetidae) through ancient DNA. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2025(4), zlaf167.
22. Chibani K, Fan M, Ali HE, Al-Kharusi L. Unraveling the invasiveness of Prosopis juliflora (Neltuma juliflora): seed traits and ecological implications. Front Plant Sci. 2025 Dec. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2025.1721722. PMID: 41676405; PMCID: PMC12886339.
23. Cuéllar Soto, E., Tammone, M. N., Voglino, D., & Pardiñas, U. F. J. (2025). The plausible extinction of an Andean rodent: A victim of climate change? Mammalia.
24. El-Bagoury H, Darwish MH, Hassan SH, Oh S-E, Attia KA, Megahed HA (2025) Potentiality Delineation of Groundwater Recharge in Arid Regions Using Multi- Criteria Analysis. Water 17(5):766
25. Halo BA, Aljabri YA, Yaish MW, 2025. Drought-induced microbial dynamics in cowpea rhizosphere: Exploring bacterial diversity and bioinoculant prospects. PLoS ONE 20, e0320197.
26. Iqtedar M., Farooq N., Faisal M., Shafiq M., Nisa B.U., Ali H.E. and Shahid M.S (2025). Biosynthesis of Carbon Nanotubes Mediated by Bacillus subtilis and Their Structural Characterization. BioNanoScience 15:573

32. l-Bedak OA, Abdel-Sater M, Rasmey A-HM, Hassan SH (2025) Optimizing parameters for production of cell wall hydrolyzing enzymes by Aspergillus eucalypticola AUMC 15402 under submerged and solid-state conditions. Microbial Biosystems 10(1):135-151
33. l-Bedak OA, Abdel-Sater M, Rasmey A-HM, Hassan SH (2025) Optimizing parameters for production of cell wall hydrolyzing enzymes by Aspergillus eucalypticola AUMC 15402 under submerged and solid-state conditions. Microbial Biosystems 10(1):135-151
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