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Nisreen Abu Waer

PhD STUDENTS

PhD, Environmental Science and Engineering (Mar 2023 - Dec 2026)

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Biography

Nisreen Abuwaer completed a joint Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2021, with a specialization in Spatial Planning, a minor in Sustainable Cities, and an emphasis on Public Policy. During her studies, she gained practical experience through internships at the Urban Observatory Department of the Greater Amman Municipality and the Accessible Cities Project at the Metropolitan Planning Council, where she evaluated ADA transition plans for Public Rights-of-Way. Nisreen also served as Vice President of the Eco Educators student organization. In spring 2023, she joined KAUST to pursue a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Engineering, aiming to advance her research in urban sustainability and environmental science.

Research Interests

Nisreen’s research focuses on biometeorology and thermal comfort in the context of climate change. Her work investigates how extreme weather events and temperatures impact livability specifically focusing on walkability in urban environments. By exploring climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, Nisreen enhances urban resilience against climate extremes. Her research uses digital twins to simulate and analyze climate change effects on urban systems, providing insights into improving thermal comfort and livability. This work contributes to developing effective climate adaptation strategies and creating more resilient, sustainable urban spaces.

Selected Publications

  • Abuwaer, N., Ullah, S. and Al-Ghamdi, S.G. (2023). Building Climate Resilience Through Urban Planning: Strategies, Challenges, and Opportunities. Sustainable Cities in a Changing Climate. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781394201532.ch12

 

Education

  • Joint Bachelor’s - Master’s Degree - Urban Planning and Policy, University of Illinois, Chicago, 2021

Professional Profile

  • 2021: Intern, Urban Observatory Department, Greater Amman Municipality, Amman, Jordan
  • 2020: Vice President, Eco Educators, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL
  • 2020: Intern, Accessible Cities Project, Metropolitan Planning Council, Chicago, IL
  • 2019: Intern, Office of Sustainability, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL

Awards

  • 2018-2020 CUPPA Dean’s List
  • 2016-2018 Moraine Valley President’s List

KAUST Affiliations

  • Climate and Livability Initiatives
  • Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering
  • Urban Lab

Research Interests Keywords

Walkability Digital Twins Thermal Comfort Biometeorology
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