Discover Applied Sciences is a fully open access, broad-scope journal launched in 2018 under the former journal title SN Applied Sciences (2023 Impact Factor: 2.8). The journal is indexed in DOAJ, ESCI, Scopus and several other indexing services. The journal has Section editors for the various research disciplines covered by the journal. These are members of the academic leadership at the journal, advise the publisher on key developments in their field, and play an active role in the academic scope and in the development of the journal.

Dr. Farhana Aziz joined the Discover Applied Sciences Editorial Board in 2018. She has always been keen to contribute towards the Journal's growth and development. She expressed her interest to increase her engagement with the journal and move to the role of a Section editor when we announced the position.

We had a brief discussion about the role and its responsibilities, and she graciously accepted to be the Section editor of the journal’s section Engineering with the focus on Environmental Engineering. 

Here's a short interview with our new Section Editor:

What is your current research focused on?

My current research focuses on developing advanced light-responsive materials for sustainable water and wastewater treatment. Specifically, I work on UV and visible light-assisted photocatalysis, nanostructured materials, and smart membrane systems for the degradation of emerging contaminants, microbial pathogens, and heavy metals. My team explores the synergy between photocatalytic reactions and membrane separation by integrating novel materials such as lanthanum orthoferrites, bismuth ferrites, and Cu-based heterojunctions into functional composites. We also emphasize green synthesis approaches and solar-driven treatment platforms to enhance real-world applicability and sustainability.

What are the most interesting emerging topics or new technologies/new developments in your field of research?

Some of the most exciting developments in my field include the design of Z-scheme and heterojunction photocatalysts that enhance visible light activity, enabling more efficient solar-driven pollutant degradation. In parallel, there is a growing interest in photoelectrocatalytic systems, which integrate light absorption and electrochemical processes to improve charge separation and energy conversion efficiency. These systems are particularly promising in addressing the water-energy nexus, where clean water production and sustainable energy generation are simultaneously pursued, for instance, through the coupling of wastewater treatment with hydrogen production.

Another emerging area is the development of self-disinfecting surfaces using antimicrobial photocatalytic coatings, which have become increasingly relevant in public health. Additionally, the use of bio-derived and recyclable nanomaterials, such as functionalized chitosan or carbon-based composites from biomass waste, supports green chemistry principles and circular economy approaches. The integration of real-time monitoring sensors with membranes and catalytic surfaces also represents a frontier in creating smart, automated water purification systems.

Tell us about your role as an Editorial Board Member (EBM) on the journal Discover Applied Sciences and your vision as a Section Editor, and what made you want to take up this role!  

As a Section Editor for Discover Applied Sciences, I oversee the Engineering section, particularly submissions related to environmental engineering, materials science, and water treatment technologies. I was motivated to take on this role to help shape a platform that promotes high-quality, interdisciplinary, and impactful research. My goal is to attract and showcase innovative work from diverse research communities, including emerging scholars and established experts, especially in areas aligning with sustainable development and clean technology. I also aim to foster a rigorous yet supportive peer review environment that enhances manuscript quality and global relevance.

Do you have any advice for new members of the board?

Stay active and curious! As a board member, your role goes beyond reviewing; it's about mentoring the scientific community by upholding quality standards and providing constructive feedback. I encourage new members to explore manuscripts outside their comfort zones, engage with authors professionally, and remain responsive to editorial communication. Building rapport with co-editors and understanding the journal’s vision will also help you contribute more effectively to its growth.

What do you enjoy most or look forward to about your work on the journal?

I enjoy the opportunity to stay connected with cutting-edge research trends and engage with a vibrant community of scientists around the world. It’s rewarding to see how manuscripts evolve through the peer-review process and to support researchers in refining and amplifying their contributions. What I look forward to most is helping the journal grow as a global hub for impactful, solution-driven research, especially in the context of climate change, environmental resilience, and green technologies. 

Lovely to have you onboard in this new role, Dr. Aziz , and I am sure your contribution will help the journal reach new heights!