Dr. Sher Afghan Khan | Energy | Best Researcher Award
Professor at IIUM, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Dr. Sher Afghan Khan is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, particularly known for his contributions to gas dynamics and high-speed aerodynamics. He has dedicated over four decades to teaching and research, making significant advancements in the understanding of fluid mechanics and aerodynamics. Currently serving as a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at a prominent university in Malaysia, he has played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape and inspiring future generations of engineers.
Profile
Education
Dr. Khan holds an impressive academic background, having completed his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) in 2001. His doctoral thesis, titled “Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows,” addressed complex challenges in gas dynamics and set the stage for his subsequent research endeavors. Prior to his Ph.D., he obtained a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Aerospace Engineering (Aerodynamics) from IITK in 1984, and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (B.Sc. (Engg.)) from Aligarh Muslim University in 1982. This strong educational foundation has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of mechanical and aerospace principles.
Experience
Dr. Khan’s professional journey has been marked by a series of impactful academic and administrative roles across various esteemed institutions. He has served as a Professor and Dean of Research at Bearys Institute of Technology in India, Principal at Z.H. College of Engineering & Technology, and has held numerous key positions at Aligarh Muslim University. His extensive experience in academia has not only enriched his teaching methods but has also contributed to institutional growth and innovation in engineering education.
Research Interests
Dr. Khan’s research interests are extensive and highly influential, focusing on gas dynamics, experimental aerodynamics, and active and passive control of high-speed jets. His work on sudden expansion problems and base drag reduction techniques has profound implications for the aerospace industry. Dr. Khan actively supervises both Ph.D. and Master’s students, promoting research excellence and the development of innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges.
Awards
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Khan has garnered numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to science and engineering. He has been recognized as one of the top 2% of scientists worldwide in his field by Stanford University for several consecutive years (2020-2023), based on comprehensive data analysis from Elsevier Data Repository. Additionally, Dr. Khan is a life member of several professional organizations, including the Indian Society of Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Power and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (India), further showcasing his commitment to advancing the field of mechanical and aerospace engineering.
Publications
Dr. Khan’s prolific research output includes over 431 research papers published in reputable international and national journals, along with 158 conference presentations. His notable publications include:
Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2002). Active Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows from Over Expanded Nozzles. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 19(1-2), 119-126. Cited by: 50
Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2003). Control of Suddenly Expanded Flows with Micro Jets. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 20(2), 63-81. Cited by: 45
Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2004). Control of Suddenly Expanded Flow from Under Expanded Nozzles. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 21(4), 233-253. Cited by: 30
Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2006). Active Control of Base Pressure in Supersonic Regime. Journal of Aerospace Engineering, 87, 1-8. Cited by: 25
Khan, S. A., & Baig, M. A. A. (2011). Control of Base Flows with Micro Jets. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 28(1), 59-69. Cited by: 20
Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2005). Active Control of Suddenly Expanded Flow from Under Expanded Nozzles – Part II. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 22(3), 163-183. Cited by: 18
Khan, S. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2006). Nozzle Expansion Level Effect on a Suddenly Expanded Flow. International Journal of Turbo and Jet Engines, 23(4), 233-258. Cited by: 22
Khan, S. A., & Crasta, A. (2010). Oscillating Supersonic Delta Wing with Curved Leading Edges. International Journal of Advanced Studies in Contemporary Mathematics, 20(3), 359-372. Cited by: 15
Khan, S. A., Baig, M. A. A., & Rathakrishnan, E. (2012). Active Control of Base Pressure in Suddenly Expanded Flow for Area Ratio 4.84. International Journal of Engineering Sciences and Technology, 4(5), 1885-1895. Cited by: 14
Rehman, S., & Khan, S. A. (2008). Control of Base Pressure with Micro Jets Part-I. International Journal of Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, 80(2), 158-164. Cited by: 17
Conclusion:
Dr. Sher Afghan Khan’s extensive contributions to gas dynamics, aerodynamics, and related fields, along with his strong publication record, make him a compelling candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued focus on interdisciplinary research and expanded global collaborations, his future work has the potential to break new ground in aerospace engineering. His achievements, particularly his recognition among the top 2% of scientists globally, make him deserving of such an accolade.
Aphichit holds a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Thailand (2000-2003), where he studied the injection nozzle of DI diesel engines for blended vegetable oils. He earned his Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering from St John’s University, Thailand (1993-1995), focusing on the deflection of beams under uniformly distributed loads. Additionally, he obtained a Higher Vocational Certificate in Automotive from The Bangkok Institute of Technology, Thailand (1990-1992).
Aphichit’s professional journey includes various roles, such as lecturer at Southeast Bangkok University (2018-present), Thai-Taiwan (BDI) Technology College (2013-2016), and Eco Design Consultant Co., Ltd. (2010-2012). He has also served as an after-sales service manager for BMW Nelson’s Autohaus and BENZ Bkk Group. Notably, he conducted research under Prof. Dr. Helmut Tschöke at Otto-Von-Guericke-Universität Magdeburg, Germany.
Aphichit’s research interests are centered on hydrogen energy in automotive applications, energy sustainability, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His work explores innovative solutions for energy conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable development.
Aphichit has received several prestigious awards, including the Silver Medal and Outstanding Award in Energy & Environment at the 35th International Invention, Innovation & Technology Exhibition (ITEX 2024) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He also earned accolades at the 18th Thailand Research Expo 2023 and was recognized as an Outstanding Academic Personnel by the Association of Private Higher Education Institutions of Thailand.
Aphichit has contributed significantly to academic literature. Some of his notable publications include: