Rawalpindi (Khyber Mail): Prof. Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman, a distinguished Professor and Precision Agriculture Research Chair at the Engineering Department of Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture in Canada, has officially assumed his position as the Vice Chancellor of Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (PMAS-AAUR).
The appointment was made by the Governor of Punjab, who also serves as the Chancellor of PMAS-AAUR. This marks the second tenure for Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman as Vice Chancellor of the university, having previously held the position from 2019 to 2022. During his earlier tenure, PMAS-AAUR garnered global recognition as a leading institution in the field of agriculture, becoming a hub for research, agriculture, and academic activities.
Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman’s academic and professional journey is notable for its breadth and depth. He joined Dalhousie University in 2010 as an Associate Professor and was promoted to Professor in 2014. His extensive experience also includes roles at Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro, Canada, University of Agricultural and Technology in Japan as a JSPS-NSERC Research Fellow, University of Florida in the USA as a Post-Doctoral Fellow, and University of Agriculture Faisalabad as an Assistant Professor, lecturer, and Research Officer.
Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman holds a JSPS-NSERC Research Fellowship in Precision Agriculture from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology in Japan, a Post-Doctoral Fellowship from the University of Florida, a Doctorate from Newcastle University in the UK, and BSc & MSc degrees in Agricultural Engineering from University of Agriculture Faisalabad.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to industry, teaching, research, and extension in machinery systems, Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman was awarded the prestigious Glenn Downing Award by the Canadian Society for Bioengineering (CSBE/SCGAB) in 2014. The University of Florida also honored him in 2015 for his work in developing a variable rate sprayer system and method for variably applying agrochemicals.
Dr. Qamar-uz-Zaman has authored over 200 research publications, including research papers, review articles, extension bulletins, and technical reports. His prolific academic career also includes the authorship of two book chapters and two patents on variable rate sprayer systems and methods for variably applying agrochemicals.
As he takes on this new role, the PMAS-AAUR community looks forward to the continued advancement of the university under his esteemed leadership.