“We are entering a world in transition, shaped by uncertainty as well as opportunity. Global challenges call for responsibility, courage, and the willingness to translate scientific knowledge into a positive contribution to society and the future”, said Dr. Jabr in his speech.
Dr. Jabr earned his doctorate at the Technical University of Leoben in the field of structural and functional ceramics. In his dissertation entitled "Understanding the Effect of Processing Conditions on the Properties of Cold Sintered Ceramics,” he addressed a highly topical issue in materials research. His work focuses on the so-called cold sintering process, an innovative manufacturing method that allows ceramics to be produced at temperatures below 350 °C. Compared to conventional sintering processes, which require temperatures above 1000 °C, this approach opens up new perspectives for significantly more energy-efficient and sustainable production. The findings of the work therefore make an important contribution to the development of sustainable material solutions and lay the foundation for numerous new applications.
For this research achievement, the materials scientist was also awarded the prestigious “Award of Excellence” by the Federal Ministry for Women, Science and Research in 2025. This state prize is one of the highest honors for outstanding scientific achievements by young researchers in Austria and has been awarded annually since 2008. The award ceremony took place in December 2025 in the Aula der Wissenschaften (Hall of Sciences) in Vienna and honored Dr. Jabr as one of the country's outstanding young researchers.
Academic Background
Dr. Jabr's academic career is closely linked to the Technical University of Leoben. After completing both his bachelor's and master's degrees in materials science with distinction, he began his doctoral studies in 2021 and has also been working at the Chair of Structural and Functional Ceramics since then. His academic career at TU Leoben is complemented by international research experience, including a Marshal Plan Scholarship Grant, which enabled him to conduct research at Pennsylvania State University.
Beyond his dissertation, he has received numerous awards for his scientific work and strong communication skills. He was awarded first prize in the student speech competition of the Austrian and European Ceramic Societies and the Best Paper Award of the Austrian Ceramic Society, underscoring his commitment to scientific exchange.
The fact that Dr. Abdullah Jabr gave the doctoral graduates' thank-you speech at the graduation ceremony in December 2025 was therefore more than a formal gesture. It was recognition of a young scientist whose path is exemplary for the next generation at the Technical University of Leoben.
Contact
Dipl.-Ing. Dr.mont. Abdullah Jabr
Chair of Structural and Functional Ceramics
Technical University of Leoben
Phone: +43 3842 402 – 4104
e-Mail: abdullah.jabr(at)unileoben.ac.at
