Title: Research Chemist
Company: University of Florida
Location: Winter Haven, Florida, United States
Faraj Mohammad Hijaz, PhD, research chemist at the University of Florida, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Scientists for dedication, achievements, and leadership in chemical research.
With over two decades of experience to his credit, Dr. Hijaz has carved out a distinguished career in the field of chemical research, specializing in analytical and food chemistry. He currently excels as an analytical chemist at Method Testing Labs, a position he has held since 2023. In this role, he is responsible for conducting detailed chemical analyses and ensuring the accuracy and reliability of testing methods. Prior to this, he served as an analytical chemist at Givaudan Flavors in 2022 and as a research chemist at the University of Florida from 2016 to 2022. His career also includes significant roles at the USDA from 2012 to 2016, and earlier positions at the University of Florida and Birzeit University. He began his career as a quality control chemist at Birzeit University from 2002 to 2004.
Before embarking on his professional path, Dr. Hijaz pursued an education at Birzeit University, earning a Bachelor of Science in analytical chemistry in 1997. He continued his academic efforts at Kansas State University, obtaining a master’s degree in food science in 2007, followed by a PhD in food science in 2010. During his PhD studies, he identified the metabolites of radiolytic markers in irradiated food, revealing how the body processes these compounds. This discovery was published in a scientific journal. At the University of Florida, he conducted the first chemical analysis of citrus phloem sap and developed a novel preparation method for this analysis, which has been widely cited in the scientific community. Beyond his primary responsibilities, he has also participated in various research projects as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture, contributing to significant advancements in the sciences. His work has been recognized with awards such as the Top Presenter at the Poster Session at the Kansas State Research Forum in 2010 and a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs from 2004 to 2006.
In light of his impressive undertakings, Dr. Hijaz has authored notable works including “Chemical Composition Of Cornicle Secretion Of The Brown Citrus Aphid Toxoptera Citricida,” published in Physiological Entomology in 2016. His contributions to chemical research have not only advanced the field but also provided valuable insights into the composition and behavior of various chemical substances. He attributes his success to the guidance and support of the people around him. In addition to his primary vocation, he remains affiliated with various organizations such as the American Chemical Society, the Institute of Food Technology, Florida State Horticulture, and the Entomological Society of America, maintaining his involvement and contributing to the broader scientific community. Looking ahead, he plans to continue conducting research and exploring new areas and ideas. He aspires to create a website about food science to educate people on nutrition, food safety, food-related diseases, and healthy eating habits.
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