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Introduction:
Taha Manzoor is an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥, where he leads the Renewable Thermal Lab. His research explores clean heat technologies for challenging environments — from remote Arctic regions to deep space. The lab has projects ranging from thermal energy storage to small modular nuclear reactors.

Originally from rural Pakistan, Manzoor’s path to engineering was shaped by early scientific curiosity and a desire to build solutions that make a difference. International research experiences and community collaborations continue to influence his approach, including a current project supporting energy self-reliance in Northern ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥.

Meet Taha Manzoor.

Tell us about your current role and the work you are involved in.

I am an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the founder of the Renewable Thermal Lab at the U of A. 

My lab aims to develop clean heat technologies that can enable industrial heat decarbonization — a sector responsible for 38 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

My team focuses on developing sustainable, refueling-free power and heat systems for remote Arctic locations and deep space missions, including low-cost thermal energy storage systems and small modular nuclear reactors.

We also work on advanced personal cooling systems, thermal sensors, radiation shields and high-temperature energy components to support defence operations and long duration space missions.

What led you to pursue a career in your field?

I always wanted a career where I could create new things and contribute to knowledge generation.

Growing up in rural Pakistan in the small town of Bhakkar, I was fascinated by stories of technological advancements that I read in local Urdu newspapers.

Although I couldn’t understand much of it at the time, it probably fueled my curiosity even further.

Abdus Salam, the Nobel Laureate in Physics, was an early inspiration — his hometown, Jhang, was just next door.

I never considered myself as brilliant as him, but I hoped to leave my mark in the scientific literature one day.

That aspiration is what ultimately led me to the work I’m doing today.

Was there a particular moment or influence that sparked your interest?

Not really — it was a very gradual process.

As I mentioned, I was always intrigued by scientific advancements and wanted to contribute in some way. A Beautiful Mind was probably a turning point; it made me seriously consider pursuing a PhD and getting deeply involved in research.

I always joke with my friends that I don’t really know how to do anything else, so it suits me just fine to sit on an island and do the work I love — as long as there’s a stipend to cover the bills! 😊

How does your work or research contribute to the high-level goals of your department or unit?

Affordable, sustainable energy systems — especially those tailored for Canada’s harsh winter conditions — are central to the Department of Mechanical Engineering’s objectives, and my research directly aligns with this vision.

With heat accounting for more than two-thirds of global industrial energy demand, particularly in sectors like minerals and mining, technologies that enable its decarbonization are essential to the global energy transition.

Clean heat systems have been recognized as a top development priority by Emissions Reduction ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥, ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ Innovates and NSERC.

Through this work, my research is positioning the U of A and our department as leaders in next-generation clean energy technologies.

What do you find most rewarding about your job?

Being able to pursue research on topics I’m passionate about (as long as I can secure the funding 😄) and interact with brilliant young minds every day. I consider that a real blessing.

Can you share a project or initiative you are particularly proud of? What was its impact?

It’s still under development, so its full impact remains to be seen, but my team is currently collaborating with a First Nations band government in Northern ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥ to explore sustainable, clean heat solutions for the community.

The goal is to help them become more self-reliant by using local resources. This project is especially close to my heart because of its practical relevance and the opportunity to meaningfully integrate Indigenous perspectives and knowledge into my research.

What skills or experiences have been most valuable to you in your work?

International exposure has been the most valuable part of my journey. Pursuing an MSc in South Korea and an undergraduate degree in Pakistan helped me develop a broad, global perspective on research.

My PhD experience in Québec deepened my understanding of Canada’s internal diversity. It taught me that a one-size-fits-all approach to energy technologies doesn’t work. Instead, we must carefully assess each region’s resources and develop sustainable energy solutions that work best locally while being mindful of their impacts on other regions.

How do you stay current with advancements and new trends in your field?

The global energy transition is underway, and the technological landscape is evolving rapidly. It’s certainly challenging to stay up to date, but I’ve found the best approach is to attend leading conferences, network with researchers and stakeholders and stay informed about global political developments — since energy, national security and politics are deeply interconnected.

What is one thing that people would be surprised to know about you?

I don’t think my colleagues at the U of A have seen my dancing skills yet, so that might come as a surprise 😄