Prof. Mohammad Mobeen: A Catalyst for Innovation in Education and Administration
Dr. Suhaib Ahmad Khan
Aligarh Muslim University is renowned for its excellence in higher education and holds a strong ranking among prestigious institutions. It has produced and nurtured many distinguished scholars, academicians, and politicians. Among them is Professor Mohammad Mobeen, an internationally acclaimed researcher in the field of materials and corrosion. In addition to his academic expertise, he possesses a strong aptitude for administrative affairs and leadership.
Prof. Mohammad Mobeen is an esteemed academic and leader in higher education and a distinguished Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry in London and currently serves as the Vice Chancellor of Cluster University Srinagar, on deputation from Aligarh Muslim University, where he is a Professor in the Department of Applied Chemistry.
With a robust academic background and extensive experience in administration, he has been pivotal in shaping the university’s vision and strategic direction. It is an undeniable that leading this young institution and helping it achieve its full potential is indeed a challenge.
However, Prof. Mobeen’s administrative and academic experience will contribute meaningfully to the further development of Cluster University and the completion of projects initiated by his predecessor, Prof. Qayyum Husain.
Prof. Mobeen has been associated with Aligarh Muslim University for nearly five decades, first as a student and later in various administrative roles. This extensive experience has allowed him to engage with both academic and administrative responsibilities, deepening his understanding of the complexities and challenges of governance in higher education. As a result, he can discern what constitutes excellence in teaching and research, giving him a clear vision of what is expected of him as Vice-Chancellor of the university.
He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from AMU in 1988 and subsequently joined the university as a Lecturer, eventually being promoted to Professor in 2005. His long and impactful career at AMU includes serving in esteemed academic and administrative capacities. Notably, he has held positions such as Chairman of the Department of Applied Chemistry (2009, 2012-2015, 2019-2021), Vice-Chairman of the Alumni Affairs Committee (2019-present), and Founder Coordinator of the University Sophisticated Instrument Facility (2011-2013). Additionally, he served as Provost of a residential hall for students (2006-2009), Deputy Proctor (2006), Superintendent of Examinations (2010-2011), and Member-in-Charge of AMU Press (2009-2010). Professor Mobeen has also been a member of various statutory bodies, including the Executive Council (2007-2009), Academic Council (2007-2009, 2012-2015, 2019-2021), AMU Court (2007-2009, 2015), and the Board of Studies for different departments.
Prof. Mobeen has a rich history of research and scholarship, contributing significantly to his field. With an illustrious academic career, he specializes in Materials and Corrosion and has successfully supervised 17 PhD candidates and 7 post-doctoral students. A prolific author, Prof. Mobeen has published 182 research papers, 38 book chapters, and has edited 4 books. His work often emphasizes innovation and interdisciplinary approaches, reflecting his commitment to advancing education and research. He has published numerous articles in reputable journals and is known for his mentorship of students and faculty alike.
He has successfully completed 40 research projects, encompassing 8 academic projects, 4 industrial collaborations, and 28 troubleshooting initiatives. Notably, he is engaged in three international research collaborations with prestigious organizations, including AB Alvenius Industrier in Sweden, EBARA Research in Japan, and Rezayat Kemica Protection Coating in Saudi Arabia.
Prof. Mobeen is an active member of several esteemed organizations, such as the American Chemical Society, NACE International (USA), and the International Desalination Association (USA). He is also a Life Member of the Indian Society of Analytical Scientists and a Fellow of the Society for Advancement of Electrochemical Science and Technology in India.
His outstanding contributions to the field of Materials and Corrosion have been recognized with three national awards: the NCCI (National Corrosion Council of India) Meritorious Award in 2023, the AMPP (Association for Materials Protection and Performance, USA) India Chapter Award for Meritorious Contribution in Research & Education in 2022, and the NACE International India Section Corrosion Awareness Award in 2007.
Prof. Mobeen’s dedication and expertise continue to make a significant impact in his field. Under Professor Mobeen’s leadership, Cluster University is poised for substantial growth in both academic programs and infrastructure. He prioritizes fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment, encouraging collaboration among departments, and enhancing student engagement. He is also dedicated to community outreach and development. He actively promotes partnerships between the university and local organizations, aiming to address societal challenges and contribute positively to the region.
Looking ahead, Prof. Mobeen is focused on further enhancing the university’s global standing, expanding research initiatives, and ensuring that the institution remains responsive to the evolving educational landscape.
Prof. Mobeen’s leadership as Vice-Chancellor is marked by a commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and strategic innovation. His vision for Cluster University aims to cultivate a vibrant educational environment that prepares students for the challenges of the future. The university’s faculty and students are optimistic about his leadership in creating an institution that nurtures curious minds and inspires creativity and hope.
This vision encompasses providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all, focusing on student employability, fostering interdisciplinary research and innovation, and strengthening community connections. He is dedicated to transparency, accountability, and open communication, ensuring that every voice is heard.
(The writer, Dr. Suhaib Ahmad Khan is currently associated with a multinational company and serves on the editorial board as the Associate Editor of the multi-lingual journal “Naqeebul Hind.”)
