Dr. Basma El Zein
Dr. Basma El Zein is a distinguished Inventor, Research Scientist, Nanotechnologist, Consultant, Leader, Advisor, and Researcher, known for her profound impact on the fields of nanotechnology, sustainable development, and innovation. She holds a PhD in nano-optoelectronics with high distinction from the University of Lille, France, and a Master’s in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Lebanese University. With over two decades of experience, Dr. El Zein's journey has been marked by remarkable achievements and influential contributions to academia, research, and economic development.
Dr. Basma El Zein's professional journey reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.
As the Director General of the University of Business and Technology (UBT) TechnoValley since 2022, Dr. El Zein has been the driving force behind its inception, growth, and successful operation. Her visionary leadership has transformed UBT TechnoValley into a dynamic hub of innovation, attracting both national and international investments and contributing significantly to the economic development goals of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Prior to this role, Dr. El Zein served as the Director General of the Governance and Sustainability Center at UBT, meticulously laying the foundation for the center and focusing on aligning university policies with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her efforts resulted in the development of comprehensive governance frameworks and policies.
Dr. El Zein's tenure as the Dean of Scientific Research from 2017 to 2020 at UBT marked a pivotal period in establishing a robust research ecosystem and fostering interdisciplinary research aligned with economic development objectives. She spearheaded the development of a comprehensive research roadmap, industry relationships, and innovative programs, substantially increasing research output.
Her journey at UBT began in 2015 as the Director General of the Research and Consultation Center, where she played a crucial role in advancing the research landscape, facilitating funded research opportunities, and establishing a framework of policies and procedures.
At King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST), Dr. El Zein served as a Research Scientist from 2013 to 2015, contributing significantly to nanomaterials research and their practical applications in the energy sector. Her achievements included securing substantial research funding and disseminating impactful research papers.
Dr. El Zein's academic and research journey also took her to the University of Lille, France, from 2009 to 2015, where she collaborated with distinguished research teams and contributed to cutting-edge projects in the field of nanomaterials.
Her role as a Visiting Scholar at King Abdul Aziz University's Nano Center in 2011 further expanded her expertise in nanomaterials and their growth techniques.
During her enriching 12-year tenure as a Faculty Member at Dar Al Hekma University (DAH), Dr. El Zein actively contributed to various academic and research initiatives. She demonstrated a commitment to teaching excellence, program development, and international collaboration.
As the Vice President for Academic and Scientific Affairs at the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace and Advisor to the President for the General Assembly, Dr. El Zein has been instrumental in leading sustainable development and academic projects. She organized numerous international events, contributed to the establishment of a pioneering master's program in tolerance studies and global peace, authored articles, and edited council books.
Dr. Basma El Zein is a distinguished researcher renowned for her exceptional contributions in the fields of nanotechnology, renewable energy, and energy storage. Her extensive research portfolio encompasses a wealth of publications and an impactful patent. her groundbreaking research in nanotechnology has led to significant advancements in 3rd generation solar cells. Her work delves into the utilization of nanomaterials to enhance solar energy conversion efficiency. She continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in this field, with forthcoming research that promises to revolutionize photovoltaic applications.
Her scholarly endeavors have resulted in numerous publications in high-impact journals, such as Heliyon, Crystals, Materials, RCS, Coatings, Frontiers in Energy Research, and many others, demonstrating her commitment to disseminating knowledge.
Dr. El Zein's research extends to innovative energy storage solutions, an area of paramount importance for sustainable energy utilization. Her work holds the potential to reshape energy storage paradigms, contributing to the global transition toward clean energy sources.
Her significant achievement includes a patent that underscores her pioneering work in nanotechnology and renewable energy. This patent, titled "ZnO Nanostructure by Low Pressure Pulsed Laser Deposition," represents a milestone in material science and has the potential for wide-ranging applications.
Dr. El Zein's outstanding contributions have earned her numerous accolades and recognitions, including being featured by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) as a world IP Day change maker and one of the first award women to hold a patent in no for solar energy, the CIO Women Leaders, and Women World Magazine. She has been acknowledged as one of the Top 10 Most Influential Women Leaders in Nanotechnology and the Most Influential Women Leaders in Sustainability.
Her achievements extend to receiving awards such as the Makkah Excellence Award in Environment, Excellence in Quality Management Bizz Award, Woman of Achievement Award, and International Businesswomen Award.
She has been recently recognized by Reuters as a “Highly Commended Individual” for the Global Energy Transition Award 2024 in the Woman for Women Category, as well as shortlisted for the Global Energy Transition Award 2025 in the Projects of Impact and R&D Achievement categories.
Dr. El Zein's remarkable journey and impact in the realms of science, sustainability, and leadership have solidified her position as a luminary in the fields of nanotechnology and scientific research.
Dr. El Zein is a seasoned consultant with a rich history of playing pivotal roles in advising and collaborating with various entities across multiple domains. Her consultancy expertise spans research, science, technology, renewable energy, economic development, academia, strategic planning, governance, and curriculum development. Her consultancy services are characterized by an unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and a profound understanding of evolving landscapes. Her ability to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application has consistently delivered valuable solutions that drive progress and sustainability.
Basma El Zein's key skills encompass a diverse range of areas, including Research & Development, Economic Development, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), Climate Change, Renewable Energy, Nanotechnology, and Technology Transfer. She is a dedicated advocate for Women Empowerment and brings key skills in Leadership, Problem Solving, Strategic Planning, Innovative and Creative Thinking, Analytical Thinking, Project Management, Consultancy, Time Management, and Credibility to her roles. Proficient in multiple languages, her comprehensive skill set and broad expertise highlight her versatility and impact across various domains.
Dr. El Zein's personal motto, "Discover, Transfer, Impact," encapsulates her approach to economic development. She believes in discovering new knowledge through research, transferring that knowledge, expertise, and technology to industries, and ultimately creating a positive impact on the economy and society.
Dr. Basma El Zein's illustrious career is a testament to her dedication to advancing science, innovation, and sustainable development. Her leadership, consultancy, and research contributions continue to shape and inspire the fields of nanotechnology, renewable energy, and academia. With a commitment to excellence and a vision for a sustainable future, she stands as a beacon of inspiration and innovation in her field.
