Shahriyar Ghazanfari Holagh

Program

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Why did you choose to complete your graduate studies in your program at the University of Guelph? 

There are several reasons for my choice: first, the program and research topic that I was engaged were attractive. Our lab is well-equipped, and I knew it would provide numerous learning opportunities. Secondly, the University of Guelph is renowned, with high rankings and an attractive campus; you have access to what a student may need, I love its campus. Lastly, the city of Guelph is delightful and serene, known for its friendly and welcoming residents and safety.

Tell us about how you got here...

My journey to this point has been long and formative, beginning with my upbringing in a household led by a brick manufacturing technician. Growing up in a setting where energy use and environmental impact were common topics, I frequently accompanied my father to brick manufacturing sites. These visits provided me with early, hands-on experience in energy management and utilization. I was fascinated by everything from the warmth of the kiln walls to the swirling combustion gases escaping through tall chimneys. This exposure inspired me to pursue a career in Mechanical Engineering and later a PhD focused on renewable energy, CO2 capture and utilization, and the study of heat and mass transfer in multi-phase thermo-fluid systems. Over the past decade, my research has led to the publication of more than 40 journal articles and conference proceedings in prestigious journals and recognized conferences, as well as two book chapters, which have been cited over 1100 times globally. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to peer review approximately 100 manuscripts for about twenty journals under the Elsevier and Springer umbrellas. In addition to my academic pursuits, I also gained almost four years of industry experience largely in the oil and gas sector, where I applied my knowledge to real-world engineering challenges. To achieve these milestones, I owe a great deal of gratitude to several key figures in both my personal and professional life. In my personal life, I must thank my dedicated parents, who have consistently provided encouragement and motivation; and my wonderful wife, who has been a unwavering source of support and companionship. Professionally, I have been fortunate to be mentored by Dr. Faramarz Talati at the University of Tabriz, Dr. Hamid Saffari at Iran University of Science and Technology, and Dr. Wael Ahmed at the University of Guelph. They have guided me throughout my academic career, sharing not only essential technical knowledge but also the values of professional academic behavior and integrity.

About the work you are doing here... 

As a person who loves the nature, I have always been drawn to decarbonizing energy systems and recovering their waste heat through simple, cost-effective, and practical solutions to minimize emissions. My current research delves into multiphase transport phenomena in gas-liquid systems, with direct applications in CO2 capture and waste heat recovery. My supervisor, Dr. Ahmed, played a crucial role in igniting my interest in this field. During my research, a particularly memorable moment was when we conducted our first experiment in the lab using a system that my colleague Alexander Doucette, a former master's student, and I had designed and built from scratch. It was a groundbreaking moment when we successfully captured CO2 from simulated flue gas while simultaneously recovering its thermal energy content. Moreover, my collaboration with Dana Fadlalla on integrating AI to measure essential two-phase flow parameters in gas-liquid systems proved to be an enriching experience. Also, utilizing particle image velocimetry to visualize the flow field and capture images of streamlines, which I had previously only seen in fluid mechanics textbooks, added an exciting dimension to my research. 

I believe my research can play a significant role in reducing CO2 emissions, the most prevalent greenhouse gas threatening our planet's health. Additionally, by improving the energy efficiency of systems through waste heat recovery, we can indirectly decrease the demand for input energy sources. This not only conserves fossil fuel resources but also ensures their availability for future generations.

What's it like to work with an advisor?

I enjoy a positive and supportive relationship with my advisor, Dr. Wael Ahmed. He has been incredibly encouraging, actively involving me in numerous opportunities, and sharing his valuable insights on both industrial and academic job markets to prepare me for my future career. Working in his well-equipped lab, I have gained substantial knowledge about experimental measurement techniques and significantly improved my research skills under his expert guidance.

What do you plan to do after graduation? How has U of G helped you reach that goal? 

As someone passionate about both research and teaching, my primary career goal is to become a faculty member where I can carry out further and deep research on energy systems and share my knowledge and experience with young students. However, I am also open to exploring R&D opportunities in the industry, where I can apply my skills to devise practical solutions for real-world engineering challenges. The University of Guelph is doing an excellent job in preparing graduate students for their future careers, I believe. They offer a wide range of workshops and seminars tailored for both academic and industrial positions.

Tell us something about you, beyond being a grad student. 

Outside of my academic and professional pursuits, I enjoy a range of hobbies including watching movies, reading historical books, photographing nature, and traveling. Beyond these interests, having experienced racism firsthand during my teenage years, I am deeply committed to the principle that humanity must always come first—above all else. It is essential that we prioritize helping others, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, gender, or color, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate world. This belief resonates deeply with me and is beautifully encapsulated in a poem by the Persian poet Saadi from Gulistan: "Human Beings are members of a whole, In creation of one essence and soul. If one member is inflicted with pain, Other members uneasy will remain. If you have no sympathy for human pain, The name of human you cannot pertain."

What do you like best about U of G campus? 

What I appreciate most about the University of Guelph campus is its commitment to maintaining a green and clean environment. This dedication not only enhances the beauty of the campus but also promotes sustainability and a healthier living space for students, faculty, and staff.

What do you think about Guelph itself?

I enjoy living in the City of Guelph for several reasons. Firstly, its natural beauty is exceptional and distinct, providing a serene and picturesque environment. Guelph is also notably safe and secure, making it an ideal place to raise a family. The residents are polite, hospitable, and always willing to help, which creates a warm and welcoming community. Additionally, the city offers a reliable public transportation system that facilitates easy commuting. The overall calm atmosphere of Guelph, coupled with generally pleasant weather, enhances the quality of life here.