Hossein Kazemian
My academic journey began with studies in General, Analytical, and Environmental Chemistry at Isfahan University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in Materials and Environmental Chemistry at Western University in Canada. Since joining the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), I have had the privilege of building my career as an educator, researcher, mentor, and community-engaged scientist in northern British Columbia.
As Director of Northern Analytical Laboratory Services (NALS) and the Materials Technology and Environmental Research Team (MATTER Lab), I lead a multidisciplinary group working at the intersection of environmental chemistry, materials science, analytical chemistry, and sustainable technology development. Our work is grounded in the belief that science should serve communities, support industry, and contribute to practical solutions for environmental and climate-related challenges.
At the MATTER Lab, our research focuses on the design, synthesis, characterization, and application of advanced porous and sustainable materials, including metal-organic frameworks, zeolites, bio-based polymers, and engineered sorbents. We explore how these materials can be used for air, water, and soil remediation; contaminant detection and removal; carbon capture; sustainable packaging; industrial hygiene; and circular-economy applications. Much of our work is developed in close collaboration with community, government, and industrial partners, reflecting UNBC’s commitment to research that is connected to the needs of northern and remote regions.
I am grateful to live and work on the unceded traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation. This place has shaped my understanding of the responsibility scientists have to their communities and to the environment. Through both NALS and MATTER, I strive to support meaningful research, provide high-quality analytical services, and create training opportunities that prepare students and highly qualified personnel to contribute with confidence, creativity, and care.
Mentorship is at the heart of my work. In the classroom, laboratory, and field, I aim to help students connect scientific knowledge with real-world impact. I have the privilege of supervising and mentoring undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, visiting scholars, and research associates across projects that combine fundamental discovery with applied problem-solving.
My career has also been shaped by collaboration across academic, industrial, government, and community sectors. Whether through research partnerships, consulting, analytical services, or student training, I am committed to bridging the gap between scientific innovation and practical implementation.
Through the MATTER Lab, we welcome students, researchers, partners, and communities who share a passion for using science to advance environmental stewardship, sustainable technologies, and community well-being. Together, we work to develop materials, methods, and ideas that can help build a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient future.
