Dr. Faraj Mohammad Hijaz has earned a distinguished place in the annals of professional excellence, having been featured in Marquis Who’s Who. This prestigious recognition highlights individuals who have demonstrated exceptional contributions and prominence in their respective fields. The selection process for inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who is rigorous, considering factors such as professional position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and overall impact. Dr. Hijaz’s inclusion underscores his enduring dedication to analytical chemistry and food science, fields in which he has made significant strides throughout his career.
A Lifelong Passion for Chemistry
Dr. Hijaz’s journey in the world of chemistry began at a young age, fueled by an innate curiosity about the natural world and a desire to understand the intricate Analytical Chemistry processes that govern it. His academic foundation was laid at Birzeit University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in analytical chemistry. Following graduation, he joined the Environmental Health Center at Birzeit University as an analytical chemist, where he honed his skills in laboratory techniques and environmental analysis. This early experience not only solidified his passion for chemistry but also set the stage for his future endeavors.
Dr. Hijaz’s academic and professional pursuits took a significant leap forward when he was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship, one of the most prestigious international exchange Analytical Chemistry programs administered by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs. Under this fellowship, he pursued advanced studies at Kansas State University, earning both a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in food science. His time at Kansas State was marked by groundbreaking research and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge. Notably, he was recognized as the Top Presenter in the Poster Session at the Kansas State Research Forum, a testament to his innovative approach and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
A Decade of Excellence at the University of Florida
Upon completing his doctoral studies, Dr. Hijaz embarked on a transformative chapter of his career at the University of Florida. From 2011 to 2022, he served as a postdoctoral Analytical Chemistry researcher and research chemist under the mentorship of esteemed scientists Drs. Fred Gmitter, Nabil Killiny, and Jos I. Reyes-De-Corcuera. During this period, he conducted pioneering research that has had far-reaching implications for the fields of food science, entomology, and plant biology.
Dr. Hijaz’s work at the University of Florida has been characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, blending analytical chemistry with cutting-edge research in agriculture and entomology. Among his notable projects are studies on the effects of fruit maturity on the flavor profiles of mandarin hybrids, a critical area of research for improving the quality and marketability of citrus fruits. Additionally, he has explored the chemical composition of the hemolymph (insect blood) of the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), a vector responsible for spreading Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease. His findings have provided valuable insights into the metabolic processes of ACP and its role in disease transmission.
Another significant focus of Dr. Hijaz’s research has been the chemical Analytical Chemistry composition of ACP honeydew, a sugary excretion produced by the insect. By analyzing the components of honeydew, Dr. Hijaz has contributed to a deeper understanding of how ACP interacts with its environment and how these interactions can be leveraged to develop targeted pest management strategies. Furthermore, his investigations into the effects of temperature changes on the metabolism of ACP have shed light on how environmental factors influence the behavior and survival of this destructive pest.
Since 2012, Dr. Hijaz has also been actively involved in postdoctoral Analytical Chemistry research within the Vector Entomology Lab at the University of Florida. His work in this capacity has further expanded his expertise in entomological sciences, particularly in the context of disease vectors and their impact on agricultural systems. This interdisciplinary approach has positioned him as a leading authority in the fight against citrus greening, a disease that poses a significant threat to global citrus production.
Contributions to Scientific Literature
Dr. Hijaz’s contributions to the scientific Analytical Chemistry community extend beyond the laboratory. He has authored and co-authored numerous publications that have advanced the understanding of key issues in food science and entomology. Some of his most notable works include:
- “Possible Role of Plant Volatiles in Tolerance Against Huanglongbing in Citrus”: This paper explores the potential of plant volatiles to enhance the resilience of citrus trees against HLB, offering promising avenues for sustainable disease management.
- “The Use of Deuterium-Labeled Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid to Study Uptake, Translocation, and Metabolism of Exogenous GABA in Plants”: In this study, Dr. Hijaz employed advanced isotopic labeling techniques to investigate the role of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in plant physiology, contributing to a better understanding of plant stress responses.
- “Phenolics, Flavonoids, and Antioxidant Capacities in Citrus Species with Different Degrees of Tolerance to Huanglongbing”: This research highlights the correlation between phytochemical composition and disease tolerance in citrus species, providing valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at developing resistant varieties.
These publications reflect Dr. Hijaz’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and addressing pressing challenges in agriculture and food security.
Professional Affiliations and Recognition
To remain at the forefront of his field, Dr. Hijaz actively engages with leading professional organizations, including the American Chemical Society, the Institute of Food Technology, Florida State Horticulture, and the Entomological Society of America. These affiliations have enabled him to stay informed about emerging trends, collaborate with peers, and contribute to the broader scientific community.
His dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. In addition to the Fulbright Scholarship and his recognition as a Top Presenter at Kansas State, Dr. Hijaz has earned widespread acclaim for his contributions to analytical chemistry and food science. Despite his many achievements, he remains humble, crediting his success to the guidance and support of mentors, colleagues, and collaborators who have played pivotal roles in his journey.
