ACerS is pleased to announce Sepideh Akhbarifar has been selected for Volunteer Spotlight, a program that recognizes a member who demonstrates outstanding service to The American Ceramic Society through volunteerism.

Akhbarifar is a research scientist in the Vitreous State Laboratory and assistant professor of mechanical engineering at The Catholic University of America (CUA) in Washington, D.C. She received a B.S. in textile engineering from Kar University in Iran; two master’s degrees in chemical engineering and nuclear environmental protection from Iran University of Science and Technology and CUA, respectively; and a Ph.D. in physics from CUA.

As a research scientist, Akhbarifar leads research on thermoelectric phenomena in bulk oxide ceramics, metal–insulator transitions, quantum physical processes, materials synthesis, multiscale characterization, and statistical modeling. She also conducts research on CO₂-reducing geopolymer materials and high-efficiency dust removal systems. Recognized for her contributions, Akhbarifar was honored as the “Young Women Inventor 2010” by Iran’s National Elites Foundation.

Akhbarifar has actively contributed to organizing symposiums and sessions at major materials science conferences, including MRS and MS&T, focusing on thermoelectric materials. She currently serves as program chair of the Energy Materials and Systems Division and is outgoing chair of the D.C./Maryland/Virgina Section.

We extend our deep appreciation to Akhbarifar for her service to our Society!

Author

Vicki Evans

Spotlight Categories

  • Member Highlights