Abhinav Sobti

Research 01

Clean Energy Research Center, University of South Florida — Summer 2026

Paper: Development and Characterization of a Lead-Free N-CQD/BCZT Piezo-Photocatalytic Nanoplatform for Antimicrobial Applications

I investigated and synthesised a nanoplatform combining lead-free barium calcium zirconium titanate (BCZT) with nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots under the supervision of Distinguished Professor Dr. Yogi Goswami.

I electrically poled the ceramic and examined its surface-charge behaviour using zeta-potential measurements. This research explores how engineered material properties could contribute to the development of future disinfection technologies.

Research 02

Wolfram Research

Through the Wolfram Emerging Leaders Program, I worked in a three-person team to model demyelination associated with multiple sclerosis using graph theory.

We compared small-world, random, and regular-lattice networks to investigate how network architecture influences vulnerability to disrupted connections. The project integrated mathematics and science, using computational models to investigate how localised damage can disrupt communication across complex networks.

Research 03

Independent Research Under the Supervision of Dr. Das and Dr. John

Paper: Squid Cartilage-Derived Carbon Quantum Dots for Selective Fluorescence Sensing of Hexavalent Chromium in Water

I synthesised fluorescent carbon quantum dots and investigated their ability to selectively detect hexavalent chromium in water.

The project connects waste-derived nanomaterials with environmental sensing, examining how a biological precursor can acquire a new analytical purpose.

I independently authored a research paper, which I presented orally at IEEE NAP 2026.

Research 04

Dubai Science Fair — 2023–24

I completed a research paper on an AI-powered sorting system combining computer vision, machine learning, and robotic control.

I also designed and engineered a fully functional prototype, which is currently under patent review. By comparing classification approaches and integrating the selected model with a functional robotic arm, I achieved approximately 90% sorting accuracy.

The project won the Dubai Science Fair in 2024, earned a Gold CREST Award, and was presented at COP28 and the IEEE RCAR 2026, connecting experimental engineering with the practical challenge of waste segregation.

Research 05

Clean Energy Research Center, University of South Florida — Summer 2024

Paper: Development and testing of a paint for passive cooling of buildings

At the University of South Florida, I developed and tested a barium sulfate coating under the supervision of Distinguished Professor Dr. Yogi Goswami, investigating how particle structure influences its cooling performance.

Combining electron microscopy with optical measurements and outdoor testing, the research achieved solar reflectance of up to 98.5% and thermal emissivity of 98.1%. I extended the research through a school demonstration and piloted the paint at 15 townhouses in Dubai, connecting materials science with practical cooling challenges in the region’s climate.

As first author, I was selected to present the paper at the IEEE Sustainable Power & Energy Conference (iSEPC 2026) and the Elsevier GCPC conference.

Research 06

Independent Research Under the Supervision of Dr. Tuckman (PhD, MIT) – 2024

Paper: How Unusual was the Spring 2024 Extreme Precipitation in Dubai

Dubai’s April 2024 floods prompted me to investigate how an extraordinary rainfall event fits into the region’s recent weather patterns.

Using Python, I analysed ERA5 reanalysis data from 2019–2024, examining precipitation trends, anomalies, and the event’s spatial distribution. By placing the storm within a broader dataset, I explored what historical weather records can reveal about extremes—and how quantitative analysis can inform questions about urban preparedness in an arid environment.

The paper was published in a journal.

Featured Initiative

GreenFutureHub

I founded GreenFutureHub to make sustainability education accessible and turn awareness into practical action. Through greenfutureuae.com, I have developed learning modules on climate change, resource conservation, and sustainable living.

Alongside these digital resources, I use the GreenFutureHub Instagram channel to share ideas for everyday environmental action. I also organise community talks, tree-planting and composting drives in Dubai and India, helping people take an active role in building more sustainable communities.

GreenFutureHub Homepage

Landing page introducing GreenFutureHub’s mission of sustainability education and climate action.

Founder Impact

Gift of Sight Vision Access Initiative

As founder of the Gift of Sight vision access initiative, I built a network of 80+ student ambassadors across the UAE, India, Singapore, and the USA, connecting communities with children in need of eyeglasses.

Through partnerships with hospitals, schools, and community organisations, the initiative has collected and redistributed more than 15,000 pairs of used eyeglasses. It has grown from a local school project into a multi-country, youth-led social impact programme.

The initiative has been featured in Khaleej Times and also received government recognition.

Media Coverage and Recognition