The Interdisciplinary Research Journey of Prof. Ahed Zyoud: Bridging Chemistry, Physics, Water & Environmental Science, Biology, Medicine, Pharmaceutical, and Material Science

 

 

A Visionary in Interdisciplinary Research

Prof. Ahed Zyoud has published over 100 articles in high-ranked international journals and has supervised and examined more than 60 master's and Ph.D. students.

His research bridges chemistry with physics, environmental science, biology, medicine, and material science, driving innovation in diverse fields. By applying chemical principles, he has developed groundbreaking solutions in photocatalysis, nanotechnology, water purification, renewable energy, and environmental health. His interdisciplinary approach tackles global challenges, promotes sustainability, and expands scientific knowledge across disciplines.

Prof. Ahed Zyoud’s scientific journey stands as a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing global challenges. His work spans multiple fields, integrating knowledge from chemistry, physics, environmental science, biology, medicine, and material science to develop innovative solutions that contribute to sustainability and public health.

Prof. Zyoud’s academic career began with a strong foundation in chemistry. He earned his Ph.D. from An-Najah National University in collaboration with Bordeaux University in France, focusing on Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry. His doctoral research investigated CdS-sensitized TiO₂ catalysts for the photodegradation of waterborne organic contaminants, laying the groundwork for advancements in environmental sustainability and material science. He further explored alternative natural dye sensitizers, contributing to the development of eco-friendly photocatalytic solutions.

Related Research:

  • Zyoud, A.H., Zaatar, N., Saadeddin, I., Ali, C., Park, D., Campet, G., Hilal, H.S. CdS-sensitized TiO₂ in phenazopyridine photo-degradation: Catalyst efficiency, stability, and feasibility assessment (2010) Journal of Hazardous Materials.
  • Zyoud, A.H., Hilal, H.S. Silica-supported CdS-sensitized TiO2particles in photo-driven water purification: Assessment of efficiency, stability and recovery future perspectives (2009) Water Purification, pp. 203-225.
  • Hilal, H.S., Nour, G.Y.M., Zyoud, A. Photo-degradation of methyl orange with direct solar light using ZnO and activated carbon-supported ZnO (2009) Water Purification, pp. 227-245.
  • Hilal, H.S., Al-Nour, G.Y.M., Zyoud, A., Helal, M.H., Saadeddin, I. Pristine and supported ZnO-based catalysts for phenazopyridine degradation with direct solar light (2010) Solid State Sciences, 12 (4), pp. 578-586.
  • Zyoud, A., Zaatar, N., Saadeddin, I., Helal, M.H., Campet, G., Hakim, M., Park, D., Hilal, H.S. Alternative natural dyes in water purification: Anthocyanin as TiO 2-sensitizer in methyl orange photo-degradation (2011) Solid State Sciences, 13 (6), pp. 1268-1275.

Prof. Zyoud has made significant contributions to water purification, pioneering the use of nanomaterials such as ZnO, TiO₂, and clay-supported catalysts for solar-driven photodegradation. His work has demonstrated the feasibility of these catalysts in decomposing hazardous organic pollutants and pharmaceutical wastes, leading to cleaner water resources. Additionally, his innovative combination of adsorption with thermal decomposition has introduced sustainable, reusable, and highly efficient water treatment methods.

Related Research:

  • Zyoud, A.H., Zyoud, S.H., Amireh, A. An innovative and sustainable approach for water purification: Thermal decomposition of tetracycline contaminant adsorbed on thermally stable montmorillonite (2024) Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering.
  • Zyoud, A., Alkowni, R., Yousef, O., Salman, M., Hamdan, S., Helal, M.H., Jaber, S.F., Hilal, H.S. Solar light-driven complete mineralization of aqueous gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria with ZnO photocatalyst (2019) Solar Energy.
  • Shqier, R., Zyoud, A., Helal, M.H.S., Nassar, H., Alkowni, R., Assali, M., et al. TiO₂ nanopowder and nanofilm catalysts in the disinfection and mineralization of S. aureus with solar-simulated radiation (2024) Reaction Chemistry and Engineering.
  • Zyoud, A., Hilal, H. Curcumin-sensitized anatase TiO2 nanoparticles for photodegradation of methyl orange with solar radiation (2013) 2013 1st International Conference and Exhibition on the Applications of Information Technology to Renewable Energy Processes and Systems, IT-DREPS 2013, art. no. 6588145, pp. 31-36.
  • Zyoud, A., Nassar, H.N.I., El-Hamouz, A., Hilal, H.S. Solid olive waste in environmental cleanup: Enhanced nitrite ion removal by ZnCl2-activated carbon (2015) Journal of Environmental Management, 152, pp. 27-35.
  • Zyoud, A., Zu'bi, A., Helal, M.H.S., Park, D., Campet, G., Hilal, H.S. Optimizing photo-mineralization of aqueous methyl orange by nano-ZnO catalyst under simulated natural conditions (2015) Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering, 13 (1), art. no. 204.
  • Zyoud, A., Dwikat, M., Al-Shakhshir, S., Ateeq, S., Shteiwi, J., Zu'Bi, A., Helal, M.H.S., Campet, G., Park, D., Kwon, H., Kim, T.W., Kharoof, M., Shawahna, R., Hilal, H.S. Natural dye-sensitized ZnO nano-particles as photo-catalysts in complete degradation of E. coli bacteria and their organic content (2016) Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology A: Chemistry, 328, pp. 207-216.
  1. Zyoud, A., Ateeq, M., Helal, M.H., Zyoud, S.H., Hilal, H.S. Photocatalytic degradation of phenazopyridine contaminant in soil with direct solar light (2019) Environmental Technology (United Kingdom), 40 (22), pp. 2928-2939

Prof. Zyoud has extensively researched thin-film materials and their applications in solar energy conversion. His work focuses on optimizing semiconductor materials for efficient solar harvesting, developing novel deposition techniques, and improving photoelectrochemical cell performance. His investigations into CdSe, CuSe, and ZnTe-based thin-film electrodes have enhanced the efficiency and stability of solar energy devices.

Related Research:

  • Zyoud, A.H., Zyoud, S.H. Influence of the redox couple concentration and activity of a NaOH/Na₂S/S electrolyte on the performance of CdS thin-film photoelectrochemical cells (2024) Case Studies in Chemical and Environmental Engineering.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Investigating the Impact of Temperature and Interlayer Defects on the Efficiency of Mo/ZnTe/ZnSe/SnO₂ Heterojunction Thin Film Solar Cells: a SCAPS-1D Simulation Study (2023) International Review on Modelling and Simulations.
  • Sbeah, M., Zyoud, A., Ishteiwi, M., Hajjyahya, M., Al Armouzi, N., et al. Assessment of flexible pristine CdS film electrodes in photoelectrochemical light-to-electricity conversions (2023) Materials Chemistry and Physics.
  • Hilal, H.S., Ismail, R.M.A., El-Hamouz, A., Zyoud, A., Saadeddin, I. Effect of cooling rate of pre-annealed CdS thin film electrodes prepared by chemical bath deposition: Enhancement of photoelectrochemical characteristics (2009) Electrochimica Acta, 54 (12), pp. 3433-3440.
  • Zyoud, A., Saadeddin, I., Khurduj, S., Mari'E, M., Hawash, Z.M., Faroun, M.I., Campet, G., Park, D., Hilal, H.S. Combined electrochemical/chemical bath depositions to prepare CdS film electrodes with enhanced PEC characteristics (2013) Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry, 707, pp. 117-121.
  • Zyoud, A., Saa'Deddin, I., Khudruj, S., Hawash, Z.M., Park, D., Campet, G., Hilal, H.S. CdS/FTO thin film electrodes deposited by chemical bath deposition and by electrochemical deposition: A comparative assessment of photo-electrochemical characteristics (2013) Solid State Sciences, 18, pp. 83-90.
  • Sabri, H., Saleh, S., Zyoud, A., Abdel-Rahman, N.N., Saadeddin, I., Campet, G., Park, D., Faroun, M., Hilal, H.S. Enhancement of CdSe film electrode PEC characteristics by metalloporphyrin/polysiloxane matrices (2014) Electrochimica Acta, 136, pp. 138-145.
  • Zyoud, A., Al-Kerm, R.S., Al-Kerm, R.S., Waseem, M., Mohammed, H.S.H., Park, D., Campet, G., Sabli, N., Hilal, H.S. High PEC conversion efficiencies from CuSe film electrodes modified with metalloporphyrin/polyethylene matrices (2015) Electrochimica Acta, 174, pp. 472-479.
  • Zyoud, A., Alkerm, R.S., Alkerm, R.S., Abdelhadi, D.H., Park, D., Helal, M.H.S., Campet, G., Muthaffar, R.W., Kwon, H., Hilal, H.S. Enhanced PEC characteristics of pre-annealed CuS film electrodes by metalloporphyrin/polymer matrices (2016) Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 144, pp. 429-437.
  • Zyoud, A., Abdul-Rahman, N.N., Campet, G., Park, D., Kwon, H., Kim, T.W., Choi, H.-J., Helal, M.H.S., Hilal, H.S. Enhanced PEC characteristics for CdSe polycrystalline film electrodes prepared by combined electrochemical/chemical bath depositions (2016) Journal of Electroanalytical Chemistry, 774, pp. 7-13.
  • Zyoud, A., Murtada, K., Kwon, H., Choi, H.-J., Kim, T.W., Helal, M.H.S., Faroun, M., Bsharat, H., Park, D., Hilal, H.S. Copper selenide film electrodes prepared by combined electrochemical/chemical bath depositions with high photo-electrochemical conversion efficiency and stability (2018) Solid State Sciences, 75, pp. 53-62.
  • Zyoud, A.H., Saleh, F., Helal, M.H., Shawahna, R., Hilal, H.S. Anthocyanin-Sensitized TiO2 Nanoparticles for Phenazopyridine Photodegradation under Solar Simulated Light (2018) Journal of Nanomaterials, 2018, art. no. 2789616.
  • Zyoud, A., Al-Yamani, S., Bsharat, H., Helal, M.H., Kwon, H., Park, D., Hilal, H.S. Recycled polycrystalline CdS film electrodes with enhanced photo-electrochemical characteristics (2018) Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing, 74, pp. 277-283.
  • Zyoud, A.H., Abdelhadi, D.H., Helal, M.H.S., Zyoud, S.H., Bsharat, H., Abu-Alrob, S.M., Sabli, N., Qamhieh, N., Hajamohideen, A.R., Hilal, H.S. Enhancement of electrochemically deposited pristine CdTe film electrode photoelectrochemical characteristics by annealing temperature and cooling rate (2019) Optik, 197, art. no. 163220

Prof. Zyoud has leveraged computational modeling and simulation techniques to optimize the efficiency and stability of semiconductor materials. His research in this domain includes numerical modeling of solar cell structures, energy band engineering, and material behavior analysis under different environmental conditions.

Related Research:

  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Simulation and Numerical Investigation of the Effect of Temperature and Defect on ZnTe/ZnSe/ZnO Thin-Film Photovoltaic Solar Cell Performance Efficiency (2023) International Journal on Engineering Applications.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Ahmed, N.M., Abdelkader, A.F.I. Numerical modelling analysis for carrier concentration level optimization of CdTe heterojunction thin film–based solar cell (2021) Crystals.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Abdelkader, A., Ahmed, N.M. Numerical simulation for optimization of ZnTe-based thin-film heterojunction solar cells (2021) International Review on Modelling and Simulations.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Effect of absorber (acceptor) and buffer (donor) layers thickness on Mo/Cdte/Cds/ITO thin film solar cell performance: SCAPS-1D simulation aspect (2021) International Review on Modelling and Simulations, 14 (1), pp. 10-17.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H., Abdelkader, A., Ahmed, N.M. Numerical simulation for optimization of znte-based thin-film heterojunction solar cells with different metal chalcogenide buffer layers replacements: Scaps-1d simulation program (2021) International Review on Modelling and Simulations, 14 (2), pp. 79-88.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Investigating the Impact of Temperature and Interlayer Defects on the Efficiency of Mo/ZnTe/ZnSe/SnO2 Heterojunction Thin Film Solar Cells: a SCAPS-1D Simulation Study (2023) International Review on Modelling and Simulations, 16 (3), pp. 120-128

In addition to his experimental research, Prof. Zyoud has contributed to bibliometric analysis, providing valuable insights into the global research trends in environmental science and sustainability. His work has identified emerging themes, research hotspots, and key scientific collaborations in the field, guiding future research directions and policy-making.

Related Research:

  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Water, sanitation, and hygiene global research: evolution, trends, and knowledge structure (2023) Environmental Science and Pollution Research.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Internet of things supporting sustainable solid waste management: global insights, hotspots, and research trends (2024) International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.
  • Shaher Zyoud, Ahed H Zyoud, Mapping and visualizing global knowledge on planetary health in the climate change context: a comprehensive exploration of insights, trends, and research priorities (2024) Discover Sustainability, Volume 5, article number 275.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Coronavirus disease-19 in environmental fields: a bibliometric and visualization mapping analysis (2021) Environment, Development and Sustainability, 23 (6), pp. 8895-8923.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Zyoud, A.H. Visualization and Mapping of Knowledge and Science Landscapes in Expert Systems with Applications Journal: A 30 Years’ Bibliometric Analysis (2021) SAGE Open, 11 (2),

Beyond materials and environmental science, Prof. Zyoud’s work extends into biological and medical research. His studies on removing pharmaceutical contaminants from water and using photocatalysis for bacterial disinfection have direct implications for public health. Additionally, his investigations into toxicological effects, including blood lead levels among schoolchildren in Palestine, reflect his commitment to environmental health and human well-being.

Related Research

  • Zyoud, A.H., Salah, H., Zyoud, S.H., Helal, M.H., Qamhieh, N., Hajamohideen, A., et al. ZnO-Based Catalyst for Photodegradation of 2-Chlorophenol in Aqueous Solution Under Simulated Solar Light Using a Continuous Flow Method (2021) JOM.
  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Haj-Yahia, A., Taya, R. Salivary Lead Levels among Workers in Different Industrial Areas in the West Bank of Palestine: a Cross-Sectional Study (2021) Biological Trace Element Research.
  • Zyoud, A., Alkowni, R., Yousef, O., Salman, M., Hamdan, S., Helal, M.H., Jaber, S.F., Hilal, H.S. Solar light-driven complete mineralization of aqueous gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria with ZnO photocatalyst (2019) Solar Energy, 180, pp. 351-359.
  • Zyoud, A.H., Dwikat, M., Al-Shakhshir, S., Ateeq, S., Ishtaiwa, J., Helal, M.H.S., Kharoof, M., Alami, S., Kelani, H., Campet, G., Hilal, H.S. ZnO nanoparticles in complete photo-mineralization of aqueous gram negative bacteria and their organic content with direct solar light (2017) Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells, 168, pp. 30-37.
  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Dwikat, J., El-Helo, M., Yacoub, B., Hilal, H. Breast Milk Lead Levels in 3 Major Regions of the West Bank of Palestine (2016) Journal of Human Lactation, 32 (3), pp. 455-461.
  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Jallad, D., Hadwan, L., Ihssan, N., Hilal, H. Blood zinc levels in nursing women from different regions of the West Bank of Palestine (2018) Women and Health, 58 (7), pp. 822-833.
  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Yahia, E.H., Sulieman, R., Haddad, A., Makhlof, M., Abu-Hilal, B., Murtaza, G., Hilal, H. Sub-chronic treatment with high doses of ascorbic acid reduces lead levels in hen eggs intentionally exposed to a concentrated source of lead: A pilot study (2020) BMC Pharmacology and Toxicology, 21 (1), art. no. 17.
  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Naseef, O., Muwafi, K., Matar, A. Salivary Lead Levels among Workers in Different Industrial Areas in the West Bank of Palestine: a Cross-Sectional Study (2021) Biological Trace Element Research, 199 (12), pp. 4410-4417.
  • Zyoud, S.H., Hegazi, O.E., Alalalmeh, S.O., Yahia, I.S., Zahran, H.Y., Bloukh, S.H., Sara, H.A., Zyoud, A.H., Shahwan, M., Ashames, A., Hassan, N., Daher, M.G., Makhadmeh, G.N., Jairoun, A.A., Kamoun, E.A. Enhanced photocatalytic and antimicrobial properties of undoped and aluminum-doped zinc oxide nanosheets synthesized via novel laser-assisted chemical bath technique (2023) Applied Physics A: Materials Science and Processing, 129 (11), art. no. 750
 

Prof. Zyoud has collaborated with medical and pharmaceutical researchers to develop innovative approaches for drug formulation and safety. His research on child-friendly oral drug formulations, as well as his work on antimicrobial nanomaterials, has paved the way for improved healthcare solutions. His studies on biocompatible materials for drug delivery systems and their interactions at the molecular level have further demonstrated the impact of material science in medical applications

Related Research

  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Haj-Yahia, A., Taya, R. Development of Child-Friendly Oral Formulations Containing Celecoxib (2023) Jordan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
  • Rahhal, B., Taha, I., Najajreh, I., et al. Phytochemical Screening and Diuretic Activity of selected Palestinian Medicinal plants (2023) Jordan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
  • Rahhal, B., Jaradat, N., Basha, W., Shraim, M., Zyoud, A., Hattab, S. The diuretic activity of Ephedra alata and Plumbago europaea in mice using an aqueous extract (2018) Moroccan Journal of Chemistry, 6 (4), pp. 795-802.
  • Ahed H. Zyoud, Photodegradation of aqueous tetracycline using CuS@TiO₂ composite under solar-simulated light: Complete mineralization, catalyst efficiency, and reusability (2025) Heliyon, Volume 11, Issue 2e41662.
  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Haj-Yahia, A., Taya, R. Development of Child-Friendly Oral Formulations Containing Celecoxib: Biopharmaceutical Considerations for Formulation Scientists (2023) Jordan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 16 (2), p. 457.
  • Rahhal, B., Taha, I., Najajreh, I., Basha, W., Alzabadeh, H., Zyoud, A., Sharaga, A., Alratrout, Z., Yunis, N., Kanaan, O., Raddad, J., Yousef, T. Phytochemical Screening and Diuretic Activity of selected Palestinian Medicinal plants in Mice using an Aqueous Extract Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology (2023) Jordan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 16 (2), p. 467.
  • Rahhal, B., Hattab, S., Jaradat, N., Basha, W., Zabadi, H.A., Zyoud, A., Taha, I., Najajreh, I., Ghanim, M. Phytochemical investigation and diuretic activity of the Palestinian rataegus aronia in mice using an aqueous extract (2022) Palestinian Medical and Pharmaceutical Journal, 7 (2).
  • Assali, M., Shawahna, R., Alhawareen, R., Najajreh, H., Rabaya, O., Faroun, M., Zyoud, A., Hilal, H. Self-assembly of diclofenac prodrug into nanomicelles for enhancing the anti-inflammatory activity (2021) RSC Advances, 11 (36), pp. 22433-22438.
  • Shawahna, R., Zyoud, A., Haj-Yahia, A., Taya, R. Evaluating Solubility of Celecoxib in Age-Appropriate Fasted- and Fed-State Gastric and Intestinal Biorelevant Media Representative of Adult and Pediatric Patients: Implications on Future Pediatric Biopharmaceutical Classification System (2021) AAPS PharmSciTech, 22 (3), art. no. 84

Prof. Ahed Zyoud’s career highlights the transformative potential of interdisciplinary research. As a prolific author with an extensive publication record, numerous patents, and tenure as Head of the Chemistry Department at An-Najah National University, he has significantly contributed to the advancement of science across multiple disciplines. His research integrates chemistry with physics, environmental science, materials science, and medicine, fostering innovative solutions for pressing global challenges. Through his extensive publication record, patents, and leadership as Head of the Chemistry Department at An-Najah National University, he has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to research excellence. His work not only advances fundamental scientific knowledge but also provides practical solutions for environmental protection, renewable energy, and public health.

By fostering collaboration across disciplines, Prof. Zyoud has opened new avenues for scientific innovation, reinforcing the interconnectedness of diverse fields. His legacy inspires researchers worldwide, demonstrating how integrating multiple disciplines can drive transformative advancements for science, sustainability, and societal well-being., reinforcing the interconnectedness of scientific disciplines in solving complex global challenges. His legacy serves as an inspiration for researchers worldwide, illustrating how the fusion of diverse fields can drive meaningful advancements for society and the planet.