Rafat Al Afif

Rafat Al Afif is a Senior Scientist at the Institute for Process and Energy Technology within the Department of Natural Sciences and Sustainable Resources at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna (BOKU). He previously served as an Associate Professor at the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Damascus, Syria (2009-2019) and as a Lecturer at FH Campus Wien, Austria (2016-2020).

Dr. Al Afif's research focuses on renewable energy systems with particular emphasis on bioenergy conversion technologies, biogas production, hydrothermal carbonization, and sustainable energy solutions for developing regions. His work bridges theoretical research with practical applications, especially in waste-to-energy conversion and off-grid energy solutions for rural communities. He has developed expertise in anaerobic digestion processes, optimization of biomass conversion technologies, and techno-economic analysis of renewable energy systems.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward practical applications of renewable energy technologies in developing regions, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. His work shows increasing focus on integrated systems that combine multiple renewable energy sources, circular economy approaches to waste valorization, and community-scale energy solutions. The research spans fundamental process optimization to large-scale implementation studies.

Dr. Al Afif leads and participates in multiple international projects focused on capacity building for sustainable energy use, including initiatives in the Gaza Strip and Uganda. His work combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to practical implementation and knowledge transfer to developing regions.

His current research activities include developing maker-movement-inspired training courses on renewable energy, designing energy villages for rural communities, and optimizing hybrid renewable energy systems for electricity access in underserved regions. He maintains strong international collaborations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.