Khadija Sharaf Din joined HOBEL as a new PhD assistant

Khadija shares her experiences, first impressions, and future goals as she joins EPFL and the Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab. Let's see what she shares.

• You just arrived at the EPFL Fribourg - what are your first impressions?

Honestly, I have a great first impression. Everyone at HOBEL is super welcoming, and the environment here is calm, focused, and just my pace. Coming from the hustle and vibrant chaos of Lahore, Fribourg feels like a refreshing change.

• Can you tell us more about your career in academia?

I hold both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in environmental science; my BS from Government College University (GCU), Lahore, and my MS from NUST, Islamabad. During my master’s, I conducted research on airborne microplastics (AMPS) in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) samples collected from various indoor and outdoor environments. That research experience deepened my curiosity about the microscopic world of aerosols and air pollutants. After graduating, I worked as a research assistant at NUST with the Climate Change and Atmospheric Research Group (C-CARGO), where I explored the links between air pollution, environmental processes, and human health. That focus continues to shape my academic path and led me to pursue a PhD focusing on indoor air quality.

• What are you most excited about your appointment at the Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab?

I’m most excited about the interdisciplinary and human-centered approach at HOBEL. It’s a great space where engineering, health, and environmental science come together. I’m also really looking forward to learning from the diverse team here and working with cutting-edge tools to help make indoor spaces healthier.

• What will your research focus on over the coming year?

My research will focus on the intersection of indoor aerosol chemistry and human health. I’ll be exploring the microscopic landscape of indoor air, with a particular focus on ultrafine particulate matter, how these particles interact with coexisting pollutants, how they transform over time, and what implications these processes have for human health. As buildings become increasingly sealed and reliant on technology, these particles are expected to dominate indoor air composition. I aim to investigate their behavior and dynamics within indoor environments. By learning and applying cutting-edge analytical tools, I aim to better assess emerging health risks and contribute to the development of strategies that promote healthier indoor spaces.

• What inspires you about the built environment of the future and its research schemes?

The built environment is becoming increasingly important as we adapt to new ways of living, working, and interacting with our surroundings. What excites me most is how this field brings together engineering, environmental science, and public health to reimagine the spaces we inhabit. The opportunity to create smarter, healthier, and more sustainable buildings that actively support human well-being is incredibly inspiring.

• Whenever you are not doing research, what are you interested in?

I love spending time in nature. Hiking and cycling are two of my favorite activities, and now that I’m in Switzerland, I’m excited to try skiing and explore more of the outdoor stuff. I also enjoy winding down with a good book, watching films, or just listening to music.