A ‘Saif’ bet for hydrogen’s future: CQU welcomes global expert
CQUniversity’s Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy (CHRE) has appointed internationally-acclaimed hydrogen and cryogenics expert, Dr Saif Al Ghafri, as Principal Research Fellow.
Dr Al Ghafri’s arrival marks a significant milestone in CQUniversity’s mission to position Central Queensland as a global leader in clean energy innovation.
Dr Al Ghafri brings with him more than two decades of groundbreaking experience in cryogenic system construction, thermodynamics, liquid hydrogen research and clean energy technologies - having previously held esteemed positions at Imperial College London and the University of Western Australia.
He is widely recognised for his pioneering work in hydrogen liquefaction, para- to ortho- hydrogen conversion, and developing advanced cryogenic systems.
“We are very excited that Saif has joined our Centre for Hydrogen and Renewable Energy based in Gladstone as a Principal Research Fellow,” Paul Hodgson, Director of CHRE said.
“His substantial expertise in hydrogen and gas liquefaction, refrigeration and cryogenics fits perfectly with our Centre’s applied and translational research that supports our industry partners’ decarbonisation goals.”
Dr Al Ghafri’s appointment emphasises CQUniversity’s commitment to building a world-class research and innovation hub in Gladstone.
His research portfolio includes collaborations with major international and domestic stakeholders such as NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Baker Hughes, GenH2, DeepC Store, Woodside, INPEX, Fortescue, Eta Space, Mitsubishi and Samsung Heavy Industries.
At CHRE, Dr Al Ghafri will lead research initiatives on liquid hydrogen storage and export, advancing LNG and liquid carbon dioxide shipping technologies, and exploring innovative systems like magnetic refrigeration.
His vision includes establishing a comprehensive research infrastructure in Gladstone, fostering industry partnerships and providing training opportunities for students and early career researchers.
“I hope to develop a strong, innovative research capability in Gladstone, focused on liquid hydrogen, LNG and decarbonisation. This work will support local industry while opening doors for student involvement and international collaboration.”
Dr Al Ghafri has supervised more than 45 postgraduate research projects, mentored career scientists and played a pivotal role in securing major research grants, including a current ARC Discovery Project that focuses on hydrogen liquefaction.
“With Dr Al Ghafri joining us in Gladstone, CHRE can now offer industry support spanning the gas and sustainable fuel value chain – from upstream production to midstream storage and transport, through to downstream use,” CQUniversity’s Chair in Hydrogen Professor Jonathan Love said.
As Gladstone evolves into a central hub for Australia’s hydrogen economy, Dr Al Ghafri’s leadership and technical prowess are expected to significantly accelerate the region’s clean energy transition and global competitiveness.
