Profile Detail
ADU-CRI Research teams comprise of national and International Scientists and Clinicians that have expertise in cancer care and research.
ADU-CRI Research teams comprise of national and International Scientists and Clinicians that have expertise in cancer care and research.
Dr. Rahaf Ajaj, PhD, CSci, SFHEA, is a Chartered Scientist (CSci) and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA). Dr. Ajaj leads interdisciplinary initiatives to advance innovative solutions for environmental sustainability, public health, and resource management. As an Associate Professor of Environmental Health and Safety at Abu Dhabi University, Dr. Ajaj brings over 20 years of expertise in academia, regulatory governance, and international research, fostering collaborations that bridge theoretical insights with practical applications to address global challenges such as climate change, pollution reduction, and sustainable development. Dr. Ajaj's distinguished research career has secured significant funding for sustainability projects and designed industry-aligned curricula. Her innovation leadership is exemplified by three German utility patents in biodegradable film technologies, which offer eco-friendly alternatives for packaging, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture, contributing to circular economy goals and reducing plastic pollution. With a robust scholarly record, Dr. Ajaj has authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications in Q1 journals, garnering more than 1,400 citations and an H-index of 20. Her research spans environmental health, sustainability, occupational safety, and climate resilience, including high-impact studies on indoor air quality strategies for the UAE, barriers to sustainable smart cities, and the environmental impacts of medical waste. Previously, as a Health Physicist and Inspector at the UAE Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (2010–2017), she conducted inspections, developed radiation protection programs aligned with IAEA standards, and ensured zero incidents through evidence-based risk management. Her postdoctoral work at Carleton University (2018–2020) advanced dark matter detection technologies with commercial potential, and her roles at the Supreme Petroleum Council and other institutions honed her skills in NORM management and regulatory compliance.