Wollo University, Ethiopia
👨🎓Profiles
🌱 Early Academic Pursuits
Kedir Derbie Mekonnen embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in chemical engineering. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering (2011-2016) from Wollo University, Kombolcha Institute of Technology, Ethiopia, completing a project on bio-ethanol production from corn cob. His academic endeavors culminated in a Master of Science in Chemical Engineering (Process Engineering) from Bahir Dar University in 2020. His thesis, Synthesis and Characterization of Biodiesel from Desert Date (Balanites Aegyptiaca) Seed Kernel Oil, reflects his dedication to renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes.
👨🏫 Professional Endeavors
Kedir’s professional career began in December 2016 as a Production Chemist at Kombolcha Tannery PLC. Here, he gained hands-on experience in leather production, waste management, and chemical formulation. Transitioning to academia in 2017, he served as an Assistant Lecturer at Wollo University, later advancing to the position of Lecturer in 2020. His role includes teaching, mentoring students, conducting research, and leading laboratory sessions.
📚 Contributions and Research Focus
Kedir’s research focuses on biodiesel production, catalysis, and renewable energy. His Master's thesis demonstrates innovative approaches to utilizing desert date seed kernel oil for biodiesel synthesis, addressing global energy challenges. As a lecturer, he actively reviews and conducts research, contributing to Ethiopia’s knowledge base in process engineering.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Through his work in academia and industry, Kedir has impacted the fields of chemical engineering and renewable energy. His efforts in biodiesel production and waste management have practical implications for sustainable development in Ethiopia. He has also played a vital role in shaping future engineers through his teaching and mentorship at Wollo University.
📖 Academic Cites
Kedir’s academic contributions are recognized in scholarly circles, with publications and research work cited by peers. His focus on biodiesel production and environmental sustainability has garnered attention in the field of chemical engineering.
💻 Technical Skills
Kedir possesses a robust set of technical skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, SPSS, Design Expert, E-Draw Max, LINGO, Aspen Plus, COMSOL, and MATLAB. These tools empower him to conduct sophisticated simulations, data analyses, and process designs, enhancing his research and teaching capabilities.
🎓 Teaching Experience
As a lecturer at Wollo University, Kedir has enriched the learning experiences of countless students. His responsibilities include preparing and delivering lectures, designing laboratory sessions, advising on student projects, and crafting curriculum materials. His Higher Diploma in Higher Education Teaching further underscores his commitment to educational excellence.
🏆 Legacy and Future Contributions
Kedir envisions a future where renewable energy and sustainable chemical processes play a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s development. His work in biodiesel research and education aims to inspire innovation in chemical engineering. By mentoring students and contributing to groundbreaking research, he is leaving a lasting legacy that will shape the next generation of engineers and scientists.
🌟 Key Highlights
- Innovative Research: Focus on renewable energy through biodiesel production.
- Industrial Experience: Expertise in leather production and waste management as a Production Chemist.
- Teaching Excellence: Significant contributions to student learning and mentorship.
- Technical Proficiency: Advanced knowledge of industry-standard software and tools.
- Sustainability Advocate: Dedication to environmental sustainability through research and practice.
📖Notable Publications
- Phytochemical property and antimicrobial activity of Ficifolius A. Rich root extract: Advancing Ethiopian indigenous wart curing medicinal plant
- Authors: Adem, Y., Yesuf, K., Getachew, S., Derbie, K.
- Journal: Heliyon
- Year: 2024
- Alternative Methods for Biodiesel Cetane Number Valuation: A Technical Note
- Authors: Mekonnen, K.D., Endris, Y.A., Abdu, K.Y.
- Journal: ACS Omega
- Year: 2024
- OH-Impregnated Household Bleach-Making Sediments for the Catalysis of Waste Cooking Oil Transesterification: Parameter Optimization
- Authors: Mekonnen, K.D., Yesuf, A.Y.
- Journal: ACS Omega
- Year: 2024
- A preliminary evaluation of how classical separation techniques affect the solid catalyst surface features during transesterification
- Authors: Mekonnen, K.D.
- Journal: Journal of Dispersion Science and Technology
- Year: 2024
- Valorization of calcium hypochlorite precipitate as a new source of heterogeneous catalyst development for biodiesel production: A preliminary experiment
- Authors: Mekonnen, K.D., Hailemariam, K.
- Journal: Heliyon
- Year: 2023