Zaheer Nasar

Dr. Zaheer Nasar is a Reader in Atmospheric Aerosols at Cranfield University's School of Aerospace, Transport and Manufacturing. His work focuses on real-time bioaerosol characterization, indoor/outdoor air quality dynamics, and environmental health impacts of particulate matter. He leads the NERC-funded Light-Induced Fluorescence sensor project and contributes to the BioAirNet network (NE/V002171/1) as Co-I.

Research Interests

• Physico-chemical and biological characterization of aerosols
• Spatio-temporal dynamics of particulate matter (PM) and bioaerosols
• Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) methodologies
• Low-cost air quality sensor networks and machine learning calibration
• Urban green infrastructure effects on air pollution
• Policy development in Hindu Kush Himalayan air quality

Recent publications emphasize machine learning-enhanced sensor calibration (2024 IEEE paper), wastewater plant bioaerosol risks (2024 Water Research), and urban air quality interventions across the UK and Lahore. He has secured over £1.6M in grants from NERC, STFC, and UKRI GCRF, with significant work on BTEX exposure in Nigeria and SARS-CoV-2 risks in wastewater facilities.

Scientific Recognition

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
• Co-investigator in multiple NERC/UKRI projects
• Active participant in BSI bioaerosol standards committee

As an advisor, he mentors five postgraduate researchers including Reece Dillon and Hathaikarn Tathong, with a strong publication record in journals like Environmental Science: Atmospheres, Risk Analysis, and BJPsych Open. His work bridges environmental science, public health, and policy implementation through interdisciplinary research.