Originally setting out to pursue a career in teaching, Mehdi Dashtban discovered his interest in pursuing research in environmental science after his Master degrees. Mehdi's PhD and current research focus on bioconversion of the wastes from forestry and agriculture into fuels and high value chemicals.

“Biofuel and bioconversion are motivation for me. I like the idea of converting the wastes from forestry and agriculture into fuels and value-added products. This will be beneficial for the environment and useful for everyone.” – Mehdi Dashtban

Since moving to Canada in 2004, Mehdi has developed a strong research expertise. He completed his PhD at Lakehead University (LU), and published his PhD research findings at several well-respected scientific journals and presented them at national and international conferences. He was the recipient of an Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) during his PhD and was awarded the LU Outstanding Young Alumni Award for his achievements and dedication in research, science and technology.

Mehdi is the 2014 recipient of the University of Guelph’s Webster Post-Doctoral Fellowship, which is awarded to a candidate that has shown excellence in research in the area of environmental science. As the recipient of this prestigious award, Mehdi is able to continue his research with adequate funding and support.

Mehdi is currently researching the bioconversion of plant waste residues into biofuel and chemical, mainly ethanol and xylitol. By improving the fermentation step in the bioconversion process, Mehdi is hoping to improve efficiency, lower cost and increase yields. This will in turn improve the economic feasibility of the bioconversion process that generates green fuels and chemicals.

Posted on September 18, 2014