🌱 Early Academic Pursuits
Associate Professor Dr. Ziyad Abunada’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in civil engineering, which was further enriched by his passion for sustainable development. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from IUGaza in 2000, followed by an MSc in Environmental Management from IUGaza and Hiroshima University in Japan, where he studied the sustainable reuse of recycled wastewater for agricultural irrigation. His Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the University of Cambridge, UK, explored the use of Soil Mix Constructed Permeable Reactive Barriers for sustainable remediation, marking a significant contribution to environmental engineering.
💼 Professional Endeavors
Dr. Abunada has built a distinguished career that spans various international organizations and universities. In his current role at CQUniversity, Australia, he serves as the Head of the College of Project Management, Built Environment, and Asset & Maintenance Management. He oversees business, research, curriculum development, and staff management. His career also includes key positions such as Program Manager at Human Appeal in the UK, Assistant Professor at Antalya International University in Turkey, and teaching assistant at the University of Cambridge. Additionally, Dr. Abunada has held roles with international organizations like the World Bank and the Danish Aid Agency, working on major projects focused on procurement, environmental management, and municipal development.
🔬 Contributions and Research Focus
Dr. Abunada’s research spans a variety of critical fields, including sustainable project management, climate change policies, and environmental remediation. His work addresses the socio-economic dimensions of climate change, the integration of circular economies, and the long-term sustainability of green energy sources. He also explores emerging contaminants in water bodies and the socio-aspects of the human-environmental system (CHES). His ongoing research projects involve multidisciplinary teams and focus on key challenges in sustainability, such as the use of recycled materials in wetlands, sustainable aquifer recharge, and innovative supply chains. His leadership in research also extends to supervising Research Higher Degree students, guiding them in exploring these vital issues.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Dr. Abunada has made significant contributions to both academia and industry. His research has been recognized globally, with a notable achievement being the ISESCO ranking his environmental management research as the top in 2017. He has received numerous grants and led successful research collaborations, building strong relationships with industry partners. His work on sustainable materials and value chain management has had far-reaching implications for industries like construction, mining, and waste management. Furthermore, Dr. Abunada’s role as a Certified Accreditation Member of the Global Accreditation Center at the Project Management Institute (PMI) highlights his expertise in shaping the future of project management education globally.
📚 Academic Cites and Recognition
Dr. Abunada’s academic work has not only influenced the students he has mentored but has also had a lasting impact on the research community. He has received numerous citations for his work, particularly in areas like sustainable energy, environmental management, and the socio-economic aspects of climate change adaptation. His research has contributed to the evolution of green energy technologies, circular economy models, and sustainable construction practices. Dr. Abunada’s leadership in developing curriculum and educational strategies at CQUniversity is also a testament to his commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering the next generation of professionals.
🔧 Technical Skills and Expertise
Dr. Abunada is proficient in various technical areas, including environmental remediation, water quality testing, sustainable materials application, and climate change adaptation strategies. His expertise in developing tools for value chain management, coupled with his proficiency in integrating circular economy principles into industries, has made him a recognized authority in his field. Additionally, his experience in procurement management, quality assurance, and project management in both academic and industrial settings has equipped him with a diverse skill set to tackle complex real-world challenges.
🎓 Teaching Experience
Throughout his career, Dr. Abunada has demonstrated a strong commitment to teaching and mentoring students. He has taught a range of courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, leading modules in civil engineering and environmental management. He has also contributed to curriculum development, ensuring that the courses are aligned with industry trends and evolving market needs. Dr. Abunada is particularly passionate about using innovative teaching methods, both in-person and online, to engage students and promote learning. He is dedicated to integrating work and learning, preparing students to excel in the fast-changing world of project management and built environments.
🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions
Dr. Abunada’s legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to sustainability and his interdisciplinary approach to solving global challenges. His future contributions will continue to shape the academic and professional landscapes in project management, environmental sustainability, and civil engineering. As a leader in academia, he will further promote research initiatives that address pressing issues like climate change, resource management, and sustainable development. His future projects will likely include innovations in sustainable construction techniques, green energy solutions, and the integration of circular economies across industries. Dr. Abunada’s forward-thinking approach ensures that his impact will be felt for years to come.