Amin Molaei Fard – Photonic Crystal Fiber – Optical Physics Excellence Award 

Dr. Amin Molaei Fard began his academic journey with a focus on electronics and applied physics, gradually shaping a specialization in Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF)–based gas sensing technologies. With a strong foundation in theoretical and applied electronics, he pursued his PhD with a focus on optical gas sensors, specifically designing and modeling index-guiding Photonic Crystal Fiber (IG-PCF) sensors for industrial applications. His early research interests aligned with optical absorption spectroscopy and sensor miniaturization, setting the stage for impactful innovations in gas detection technology.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Over the past twenty years, Dr. Molaei Fard has served as a part-time lecturer at Islamic Azad University and other academic institutions such as Khavaran and Salman Institutes of Higher Education in Mashhad. He has taught a wide range of electronics and engineering courses, including General Electronics, Industrial Electronics, and Instrumentation Laboratory. Simultaneously, he led hands-on research in Photonic Crystal Fiber sensor development and carried out two consultancy projects—NGN migration and SCADA-integrated H₂S sensing for oil and gas pipelines. His dual role as an educator and practitioner has enriched his academic and industrial contributions.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Molaei Fard has made pioneering contributions to Photonic Crystal Fiber–based gas sensors, emphasizing the development of high-sensitivity, field-deployable optical sensors. Notably, he designed a hybrid non-circular PCF sensor capable of detecting H₂S at sub-10 ppm concentrations, published in Microsystem Technologies (Springer, 2025). He also improved spectral selectivity in multi-gas environments by 30% through the optimization of IG-PCF architectures, as detailed in Optik (Elsevier, 2021). His research seamlessly integrates finite-element modeling tools (COMSOL Multiphysics, Lumerical) with practical hardware implementation, bridging theory and real-world application.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Molaei Fard’s work has had tangible impact in both academic and industrial spheres. His innovations in Photonic Crystal Fiber–based gas detection have opened pathways for safer, more precise monitoring of hazardous gases in industrial environments. As a scientific reviewer and conference contributor, he plays an active role in knowledge dissemination. His SCADA-integrated sensor modules are particularly influential in modern pipeline monitoring systems, providing a critical link between academic research and industry needs.

🏆Academic Cites

Dr. Molaei Fard’s research is gaining recognition in the scientific community, with a total of 17 citations, an h-index of 1, and i10-index of 1 on Google Scholar. His core publications in Optik, Microsystem Technologies, and Archives of Sciences reflect a focused and growing contribution to the niche area of Photonic Crystal Fiber–based gas sensing. These works continue to be referenced in studies exploring innovative sensor platforms and optical material design.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Molaei Fard aims to expand his research in ultra-sensitive gas sensing, focusing on multi-analyte detection systems and integration with IoT and AI platforms. His future projects intend to refine sensor miniaturization and enhance selectivity through advanced PCF geometries. He remains dedicated to mentoring undergraduates, having supervised over 20 field-deployable prototype projects. With plans for further publication and collaboration, his legacy will undoubtedly strengthen the evolving landscape of Photonic Crystal Fiber technologies in industrial sensing and safety diagnostics.

📘Photonic Crystal Fiber

Dr. Amin Molaei Fard is a prominent researcher in Photonic Crystal Fiber–based optical gas sensing, known for his dual role in academia and applied research. His advanced FEM modeling, innovation in hybrid PCF geometries, and SCADA system integration have significantly influenced modern sensor development. As a lecturer and mentor, he continues to translate simulation into industrial solutions, ensuring his contributions remain impactful across both educational and practical domains.

✍️ Notable Publication


1️⃣ Design and optimization of index guiding photonic crystal fiber-based gas sensor

Authors: A.M. Fard, M.J. Sarraf, F. Khatib

Journal: Optik

Year: 2021

Citations: 17


2️⃣ High-sensitive hybrid non-circular photonic crystal fiber for H₂S detection

Authors: A.M. Fard, M.J. Sarraf, F. Khatib, E.A. Kakhki

Journal: Microsystem Technologies

Year: 2025

Citations: Not yet available