Hambal Iqbal works in the department of Industrial Engineering at University of Bologna with prior experience in project's execution, supervision, commissioning as well as research and development (R&D) and additive manufacturing.
Academic career
- PhD in Mechanics and Advanced Engineering Sciences from Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna, Italy (Defended in March 2025) - Thesis Titled, "Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM): Investigation of process dynamics, material insights and application prospects".
- Master in Mechanical Engineering from Politecnico di Milano, Italy (April 2021)
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Baluchistan University of Engineering and Technology, Khuzdar, Pakistan (May 2015)
Professional experiences
Sept 2025 – Present: Adjunct Professor, University of Bologna, Italy
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Teaches master’s level courses on advanced manufacturing and sustainability
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Supervises students for projects and thesis activities
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Contributes to the design and updating of teaching materials
Mar 2025 - Present: Research Fellow at University of Bologna, Italy
- Investigation of design and production optimisation of β-Ti alloy ankle prostheses fabricated by additive manufacturing
- Production of lattice structures for optimal material properties using Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF)
- Finite Element (FE) analysis and design optimisation of materials for biomedical applications
Jul 2023 – Jan 2024: Visiting Researcher at Cranfield University, UK
- Investigated the use of cored wire in MIG and Plasma based wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM)
- Investigated the melting efficiency, alloy segregation and characterization of cored wire and solid materials in WAAM, using various shielding gases and WAAM processes
- Participated in R&D projects for external partner companies
Apr 2016 – Sep 2017: Operation Engineer at Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGCL), Pakistan
- Supervision of fabrication, installation and mechanical works (RLNG Pak-Qatar project)
- Implementation of piping isometrics and P&IDs on the job site
- Responsible for plant operations and maintenance: gas turbine driven compressors, power generators and auxiliary equipment during my shift
- Planning maintenance program according to maintenance requirements
- Permit to Work (PTW) management and implementation of quality controls
- Ensuring safety protocols within the facility
Oct 2015 – Jan 2016: Traineer Engineer at Halcrow, Pakistan
- Inspected and supervised mechanical works on construction site of 32 MW power plant at Hutchison Port, Karachi
- Supervision of hydrocollecting, pickling and washing of various pipes for internal rust and/or corrosion
- Inspected DPT and X-ray tests
- Installation according to P&ID and execution of verification checks
- Ensuring a safe working environment and general supervision of mechanical work
Jul 2013 – Aug 2013: Engineering Intern at Pakistan State Oil (PSO)
- Bill of Materials (BoM) Management in Infrastructure and Construction Department
- Supervision of bottle production by injection molding and blow molding
- Oil Tank Maintenance and Quality Assurance
- Provided technical assistance to workers on site
