Executive Summary

Department of Physics at NUST School of Natural Sciences introduced MS leading to PhD in Physics in

2008, but in 2011 department decided to start separate programs for MS in Physics and PhD in Physics.

The PhD program requires 18 credit hours of course works, qualifying exam, three seminars, and a thesis

of 36 credit hours for the award of degree. The minimum duration of the completion of PhD degree is

three years. It is nearly impossible to fulfill all the requirements in three years. After three years,

students are liable to pay off campus fee and they may also ask to leave hostel. Therefore, it is suggested

that duration be increased.

The course work of the program has been designed keeping in view the international standards, HEC

guidelines and the national requirements.

The main theme of the program is to train students in various fields of Physics for their better

understanding of Physics which leads to successful careers.

A good student-teacher ratio is an essential requirement to maintain quality of education. With the

increasing number of students, the department needs to hire more faculty members.

National University of Sciences and Technology

School of Natural Sciences (SNS)

Department of Physics

Self Assessment Report-2016

(Fall 2004- Spring 2015)

PhD in Physics

Submitted to

Quality Enhancement Cell

National University of Sciences and Technology

School of Natural Science

Program Team

1. M.Ali Paracha Chairperson

2. Mudassir Ali Shah Member

3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Sr. No.

IntroductionTitlePage No

Criterion 1: Program Mission, Objectives & Outcome

History and

setup7 Mission of National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST)

8

Mission of School of Natural Sciences (SNS) 8

Mission of Department of Mathematics 8

Mission of MS Program 8

Program Educational Objectives 8

Strategic Plan 10

Program Objectives Assessment 14

Program Learning Outcomes 15

Program Objectives versus Program Outcomes 15

(A) Alumni Survey 15

(B) Graduating Students Exit Survey 26

(C) Employer’s Survey 34

Program Outcomes Measurement 36

Overall performance 37

Faculty Survey 45

Criterion 2: Curriculum Design & Organization

Degree Title54 Definition of Credit Hour 54

4

Degree Plan 54

Assessment of MS Mathematics Program Curriculum 54

Theory, Problem Analysis & Solution Design 55

Requirements for the Program Curriculum 55

Comparison of SNS Program with HEC requirements 55

Information technology component 56

Course Outlines 57

Communication Skills 57

Criterion 3: Laboratories & Computing Facilities

Introduction57 Safety Procedures for all Labs 58

Adequate Computing Infrastructure and Facilities 60

Criterion 4: Student Support & Guidance

Completion of Program

Interaction between Students, Faculty and Teaching Assistants

60

Guidance and Qualified Advising 61

Structure of Courses 61

Guidance to Students 64

Students Counseling & Advisory System 64

Criterion 5: Process Control

MS Program at Department of Mathematics, School of Natural Sciences, NUST

Eligibility Criteria 65

Entrance Examination 65

5

Selection Procedure 65

Waiting List 65

Rejection of application 65

Migration 65

International Students 65

Admission 65

Entrance Test 65

Merit List 66

Clearance 66

Accommodation 66

Standards 66

Admission Process 66

Program Registration and Monitoring 66

Registration and Monitoring of Students 66

Recruiting and Training Highly Qualified Faculty 66

Class Audit Report 67

Criterion6: Faculty

Adequate Coverage of Program Areas

Full Time Faculty 71

Time for Scholarly Activities 72

Motivation and Job Satisfaction 72

Criterion 7: Institutional Facilities

New Trends in Learning

6

Library Facilities 73

Classrooms and Faculty Offices 73

Hostel Facilities 73

Convocation Hall/Auditorium 73

Sports Facilities 73

Transport Facilities 73

Medical Facilities 73

Criterion 8: Institutional Support

Faculty Retaining Measures

75 Research Support 75

Support and Facilities for the Faculty 75

Graduate Students, Assistance and PhD Students 75

Financial Resources for Library 76

Criterion 9: Research, Development and Innovation

Research Support and Collaborations

76 Research Projects 79

Annexure-A: List of Activities attended by SNS Researchers

82

Annexure-B: Implementation Plan 89

Annexure-C: Course Outlines

7

Annexure-D: Faculty Resume

Annexure-E: List of Publications 91

History and Setup

SNS (School of Natural Sciences) former CAMP (Centre for Advanced Mathematics and Physics) was

established in May 2004, in the campus of EME College Rawalpindi. It was shifted to academic Block-I, H-

12 Campus in June 2010 and then shifted to the present building in September 2013. CAMP was

renamed to SNS in December 2013.

The first Director General of the institute was Prof. Asghar Qadir who joined EME College after the

approval of Post-graduate program in Mathematics, of the college. The Post-graduate program in

Mathematics of the EME College was prepared under the headship of Brgd. M. Rafique, HoD Basic

Sciences and Humanities at that time. Then, for the benefit of community of Mathematics and Physics, it

was decided to establish a new research centre with the name Centre for Advanced Mathematics and

Physics. The first faculty of SNS was a Russian Professor who joined SNS under the HEC foreign faculty

hiring program. Under this program some other Russian professors also served SNS. In May 2011, after

the retirement of Prof. Asghar Qadir, Prof. Azad A. Siddiqui joined SNS as Director General (Principal).

In the beginning, SNS started a four year MPhil leading to PhD program in Mathematics only. In the

program, students were required to complete a course work of 48 hours which consists of four core

courses as well. They were also required to qualify their comprehensive exam to enter in the research

phase. In the research phase, they submit their thesis for 36 credits on the bases of their research. After

four years, in 2008, MPhil leading to PhD program in Physics, having the same structure, was started.

Since 2010, BS Undergraduate program in Mathematics is also on track. From September 2014, two

programs BS Undergraduate program in Physics and MS Chemistry have been started. Hopefully, BS

Undergraduate program in Chemistry will also be started very soon.

Since 2011, a split MPhil program (now MS program) has been launched. After the completion of MS

students may get register themselves in PhD program. A direct PhD program was also started in fall 2011.

Students of other universities may join SNS through direct PhD program. The PhD program requires 18

credit hours of course work and a thesis for 36 credits. The minimum duration of the completion of the

degree is three years. Up till now more than 15 students have been graduated under this program.

Hopefully, the number will increase in coming years.

Being a research institute, soon after the establishment, SNS is organizing Workshops/Conferences of

national and international level. The first such activity was held after five months of its establishment i.e.

in October 2004. SNS has organized five national and six international Workshops/Conferences. Apart

from this national and international activities, SNS also runs weekly seminar series during both fall and

spring semesters. In the weekly seminar series, SNS invites faculty from leading universities of Pakistan.

SNS has established firm and productive collaborations right from its very beginning. Several faculty

members and students have benefited with such collaborations.

8

Criterion 1: Program Mission, Objectives and Outcomes

Standard 1-1: The program must have documented measurable objectives that support

college and institution mission statements.

Mission of NUST:

The mission of NUST is to develop as a comprehensive, research-led university with a focus on

Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Mission of School of Natural Sciences:

The mission statement of NUST School of Natural Sciences (SNS) is to produce international quality

human resources in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry as well as conduct international quality

research in these fields.

Mission of Department of Physics:

The mission of physics department is to promote a culture of research and produce quality human

resource in the field of Physics.

Mission of PhD Program in Physics:

The mission of PhD. Program is to produce the potential PhD students with a broad base that will enable

to conduct worthwhile research in some mainstream area.

Program Educational Objectives

The broad objectives of the PhD. program is to teach its graduate a solid foundation of physical,

mathematical, and relevant scientific as well as technological knowledge in addition to developing the

intellectual skills essential for prosperity and success in their careers.

Objective #1 – Core Concepts

To impart education to students in a manner that infuses core physical and scientific concepts in the said

discipline ranging from the core concepts to the more precise areas of research.

Objective #2 –Skills & Tools

To provide students with the skills needed to join the workforce well prepared in Physical core

competencies in various industries such as electronics, optics, and energy to enumerate. Graduates of

the Department of Physics shall be able to:

a) Analyze and model real world problems based on physics as well as mathematical principles and

engineering and to solve such problems by utilizing their skills and physics tools.

b) Be able to use theoretical knowledge to implement practical solutions.

c) Be able to use hands-on experience to put into practice.

d) Create prolific collaboration with industry.

9

e) Use physics as an enabling concept to provide solutions that enhance quality of life in the

society.

f) Be able to think and work independently when involved in problem solving.

g) Exhibit superior communication and presentation skills in report writing and presentations.

Objective #3 – Professional Practice & Ethics

To provide students with a professional learning experience through vigorous course work that is

deliberated with the application of concept to daily life phenomenon. This instills a sense of professional

ethics in their personal discipline. The graduating physicists from the department must not only be

technically competent but also ethically and professionally capable of capitalizing the knowledge to new

strategic industries and markets in Pakistan.

Objective #4 – Research Culture

To encourage a culture of research in students and inspire them towards a career of innovation where

they can contribute to the local industry and also be able to integrate in to the international research

activities based on the training implemented to them during their graduate studies.

The first objective is geared towards providing quality education to students with strong basic concepts.

The second objective is aimed at producing quality graduates with necessary training in essential tools

and technologies and equipped them with skills required by the industry and essential to succeed in

professional life. The third objective is aligned with the department’s vision of producing graduates with

a sense of professional responsibility and carrying out such responsibility in line with utmost standards

of professional ethics. The fourth objective focuses on training students in research methodologies and

inspiring them to innovate.

Objective # 5 - Real world applications

An explicit goal of the program is to connect the core knowledge with the real world applications. The

fundamental learning tools have applications in fluid dynamics, electrical and mechanical engineering,

quantum computing, material science and many other areas. This not only fosters multidisciplinary

research and education but also allows students to pursue their careers in the field of computer science,

engineering and medical physics.

Obective # 6-Technical and Communication Skills:

In our PhD program, a lot of emphasis is put on developing communication skills of the students. In

particular, the speaking and writing skills in English language are emphasized. During the regular group

meetings and two seminars, the faculty guides students about effective communication. Moreover,

students are motivated to write research papers and polish their articles as well. In some cases, faculty

asks students to submit their articles to journals as well and communicate with journal staff. PhD

students are also asked to teach basic courses at undergraduate level just after qualifying their PhD

comprehensive examinations which rigorously enhances their teaching expertise.

10

Obective # 7-Research Based Courses:

During PhD coursework, faculty/supervisor recommends his/her students to take at least one Reading

and Research Course. The purpose is to train students to enhance their research capabilities by doing a

comprehensive literature survey and reading advanced texts. The course is guided by numerous sessions

with the supervisor, regular assignments and semester projects. In some cases, students write research

article based on the coursework and become better prepared for future research.

Objective # 8-Intra-NUST Research Collaboration:

At SNS, the faculty and research students are also involved in the intra-NUST research collaboration. In

particular, the collaboration with the faculty of College E&ME, RCMS, SCME and SEECS is actively going

on via joint Group Meetings every week and research publications.

Strategic Plan

The success of any department lies in the best strategy plans. This plan ensures the quality education

and incorporating knowledge with the industry. Below are the detailed strategic programs for efficiently

running the department

The Department of Physics is committed to providing best quality education conducting world-class

research.

Below we enumerate the department goals. The various elements of each goal are detailed followed by

strategies that have to be adopted. Benchmarks are also identified that define the various measures of

success, which would be used over the next five years to quantify the achievements and progress.

Goal # 1: Graduate Learning

In this section we present plans for quality learning based on a broad curriculum. We ensure that the

students follow the plans accordingly.

Elements

Curriculum must be designed which meets the national needs and international standards.

In order to achieve excellence in learning best teaching facilities must be available in the department.

Infrastructure including laboratory, library and software etc. must be available.

Strategies

The department is thrilled to make its syllabus compatible with the recommendations of Higher

Education Commission of Pakistan (HEC).

In order to teach the different courses at PhD program we retain qualified faculty at our department.

Currently, all faculty members hold PhD degrees.

We prefer the textbooks for each course which are internationally followed and taught at good

universities.

11

Benchmarks

We review the curriculum and contents after a regular period of time through deliberation and

discussion at different forums by collecting the inputs and feedbacks from different corners.

The enrolled PhD students are doing research in the field of Quantum Optics, High Energy Physics and

Astroparticle Physics.

Goal # 2: Workshops and Seminars

One of the teaching imparting sources to the students is through seminars and workshops. We organize

seminars on a weekly basis and workshops/conferences on yearly basis.

Elements

Seminar held every week in our department.

Highly qualified speakers are invited to deliver seminars.

The attendance is mandatory for PhD students.

Apart from weekly seminar series, PhD student seminar series is also organized in each semester.

Strategies

The key speakers from different universities of Pakistan are invited for the weekly seminar.

We try to invite experts in different research areas in these seminars.

One of the PhD requirements is that each student has to deliver three seminars. From 2014, this

requirement has been modified and now it is mandatory to deliver two seminars.

Benchmarks

Weekly seminar series is a regular academic activity since the start of the department.

In each seminar, a new speaker is invited.

Many new research areas are introduced through these seminars.

We ensure presence of PhD students by maintaining their attendance record. Each PhD student registers

Seminar Series as 0-credit course and they clear it by attending 75% seminars of that semester.

Goal # 3: Professional Ethics

The aim of the study is not only to impart quality education in Physics but also to teach them personal

and professional ethics.

Elements

The students are taught to maintain work ethics and uphold it in their lives.

Supervisors and GEC members play a vital role in developing honesty, fairness and dedication during

their research work.

12

Strategies

School has set up advisory groups to guide students in every possible way.

We guide our research students to strictly adhere to the policy prepared by the HEC on plagiarism.

Benchmarks

The student’s ethics are routinely observed during the course of teaching and also observed closely in

daily routine at campus.

Goal # 4: Research and Innovation

Research is an integral part of the PhD program. Following observations are made in this regard:

Elements

We provide a dedicated research room with necessary computing facilities and seating arrangements for

PhD research students.

We encourage and facilitate students by arranging financial assistance.

Different research collaborations are established to promote research activities.

Many optional subjects are offered so that the students can choose research field of their interest.

Strategies

We are collaborating with different research groups nationally and internationally.

The aim of our department is to offer state of the art courses together with a desire to excel in research

and innovation.

Apart from the supervisors and the GEC members, the PhD theses produced by our department are

examined by one local and two foreign evaluators to ensure highest quality possible.

Benchmarks

We remain successful in the enrollment of our best graduating MS students in our PhD program.

Our faculty and PhD students are producing high quality papers in ISI indexed journals.

NUST sponsors to publish in open access journals as well.

Goal # 5: Leadership Training

The following steps are taken to ensure production of leaders:

Elements

Groom leaders of tomorrow.

Provide leadership training to students.

Strategies

The students are exposed to a number of curricular/extra-curricular activities.

13

Benchmarks

The students are able to successfully organize different academic and other activities.

The PhD students, who successfully qualify the comprehensive Exam, frequently teach the basic

undergraduate level courses at the school. This provides them a great opportunity to learn the teaching

methodologies and strengthen fundamental concepts.

Goal # 6: Industrial Collaboration

The following steps may be considered for industrial collaboration:

Elements

Establish contacts with industries.

It will be highly useful for the students to have industrial experience either by visiting local industries or

by working on industrial projects.

Strategies

To expose students to industry related research projects.

Benchmarks

Encourage industry related research projects.

Goal # 7: Human Resource and Infrastructure

Be a leading institution in human resource development and infrastructure utilization.

Elements

Be a leading human resource development department for producing valuable scientific researchers.

Strategies

The faculty members of the department are well qualified.

Adequate facilities are available to the faculty, students and staff.

Different incentives are available to retain faculty members in the school.

Benchmarks

New disciplines are introduced in the department from time to time.

Establishment of state of the art laboratories and expansion of the existing ones.

Involvement in different career development activities.

Program Objectives Assessment

Following table provides an assessment of the Program’s Educational Objectives:

Objectives How Measured When Measured Improvement

Identified

Improvement Made

14

Awareness of

Core Concepts

Assignments

Exams, Quizzes

Projects

During and at the

end of semester

Needs to be more

regular

Regular monitoring

by HoD

Practical Skills &

tools

Academic

Projects,Lab

Assignments

During and at the

end of semester

Training of latest

software required

Improved

computational skills

required for the

research

Professional

Practice & Ethics

Meeting with the

advisory groups

Thrice a semester Regular

progressive

monitoring

Students are asked

to meet their

respective advisors

Research

Culture

Papers published,

papers presented

in conferences,

overseas

research tours,

research

collaboration and

regular seminars

During and at the

end of academic

year

Sponsored

research

projects with

private and

public sector,

active research

groups

Projects have been

sent to sponsors

Real world

applications

Papers published,

papers presented

in conferences,

overseas

research tours,

research

collaboration and

regular seminars

During and at the

end of academic

year

Sponsored

research

projects with

private and

public sector,

active research

groups

Projects have been

sent to sponsors

Technical and

Communication

Skills

Academic

projects,lab

Assignments,

teminars, teaching,

Paper writing

During and at the

end of academic

year

Regular

progressive

monitoring

Improved

communication

skills required for

the research

Research Based

Courses

Assignments and

projects

During the

academic year

-- --

Intra-NUST

Research

Collaboration

Group meeting

and research

publications

During the

academic year

-- --

15

Standard 1-2: The program must have documented outcomes for graduating students. It

must be demonstrated that the outcomes support the program objectives and the

graduating students are capable of performing these outcomes.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students are fully conversant with the core concepts of the subject.

Graduates are competent to apply computational skills effectively in different fields of Physics.

The students follow professional ethics to carry out their assignments.

The students have good communications skills.

The program develops a good research culture.

The program develops a good culture of intra-NUST collaboration.

The students are competent to review and extend the good research work of their field.

Program Objectives versus Program Outcomes

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

1 √

2a √ √ √

2b √ √

2c √ √ √

2d √ √ √

2e √ √

3 √ √ √

4 √ √

5 √ √ √

6 √ √ √ √

7 √

8 √ √ √ √ √ √

16

Alumni Survey

Not Applicable

Graduating Students Exit Survey

Not Applicable

Research Student Progress Review Form

All PhD students in Research phase are submitting the research progress review form in hard form at the end of each semester on regular basis. Hard copies of these forms are available in the department after analysis of these forms it is concluded that students are satisfied with the facilities available in the department for research. Most of the students are satisfied with the level of support from their supervisors. A few questions and there answers by the students are given below.

Question: What do you plan to achieve over the next 6 months? Answer 1: Course work completion and Qualifying exams Answer 2: Publish some papers and way through for thesis write-up. Answer 3: Two publications Answer 4: Working to probe an efficient non-classicality indicator. Hoping to write a

manuscript. Question: Please outline details of progress in your research since your last review

(including any research publications): Answer 1: Working on three projects which are almost completed and research publications

are to be drafted. Answer 2: I have calculated some results and have given them to supervisor for review. Answer 3.: The research work comprises of steps involving construction of CS, non-

classicality indicators NCI, entanglement generation and its quantification. Entanglement generation of SU(1,1) CS is being worked out and non-classical indicators are being explored.

Question: Do you have any comments on the level of supervision received? Answer 1: Excellent. Answer 2: No Remarks: Students in general are satisfied with the supervision and they have shown progress in their research work and hopeful to publish their research in coming months.

Employers’ Survey

Not Applicable

Different surveys were conducted in order to assess the performance of the graduates in light of

the stated program objectives and program outcomes. These surveys include Students Course

Evaluation Questionnaire, Teacher Evaluation Form (given in Standard 1-4).

17

Annexure–A presents list of activities including workshops/conferences attended by the faculty

of the department of Physics.

Standard 1-3: The result of program’s assessment and the extent to which they are used to

improve the program must be documented.

Program Outcomes Measurement

1. According to the surveys, there is a dire need to incorporate extra-curricular activities in the PhD

Physics program.

2. The infrastructure of the department should be improved. Students should have

dedicated places for leisure as well as work.

3. There is a need to improve communication skills. Communication skills (preparation of

reports, research presentations etc.) are at least as important for advancement as

technical accomplishments (mathematical models, software development etc.). Such

requirement is essential for having a successful career in industry, research and

teaching.

To improve the presentation skills, the student are required to deliver at least two open

seminars in his/her PhD research phase. They are encouraged to teach fundamental

courses in the department after the successful completion of their qualifying

examination.

In addition, PhD students register in the “Reading and Research course” (based on their

proposed PhD research topic) which provides them great opportunity to strengthen their

report writing skills.

4. The survey also reveals that students should have thorough IT knowledge. Computer

programming is now becoming an integral part of applied mathematical research.

Students for whom the computations or simulations will be necessary are required to

master the needed programming skills and software packages during their PhD degree

duration.

In order to develop computing skills, students are required to carry out computer projects

which involve their PhD research-related mathematical content. Such projects may be

carried out through typical programming languages such as C or FORTRAN or standard

software packages including Matlab, Mathematica, FeynCalc, Form, Maple etc. may be

used.

Overall performance:

Standard 1-4: The department must assess its overall performance periodically using

quantifiable measures.

There are 03 students enrolled in PhD program. The department has 10 faculty members. The teacher student ratio for this program is up to the NUST standard.

18

Most of the PhD students cannot complete their degree in the minimum time period and they request for additional time to complete the degree.

SNS has published more than 500 articles in reputed ISI listed journals and about 100 in non-ISI journals.

Since 2004, 16 projects of SNS have been approved.

Apart from the regular seminar series of each semester, the School has arranged 7 international workshops/seminars.

Different on-campus student activities have been arranged.

There are certain complaints but the situation has improved from last semesters. Air-

conditioned faculty cubicles and rooms have been provided.

Parking problem has been resolved.

The research student progress review form indicates that the research students (PhD)

of SNS are satisfied with their respective supervisors in terms of plenty of support,

guidance and patience, however some of them have a concern that the supervisor

(and/or a GEC member) should not be absent on long leave at the finishing/completion

stages of their thesis/defense. This problem may cause delays in checking the thesis

and holding the defense of students. This problem can be remedied internally at the

school level by the concerned HoDs.

Course Review report statistics (teacher and subject wise)

Student Course Evaluation Questionnaire: Table 1-4.1 shows a report on student course evaluation

questionnaire.

Remarks:

This report indicates that most of the courses are according to current requirements and no major

revisions are required in the courses.

Subject Average

No of

Students

Spri

ng

201

4

PHY-923 Quantum Information and Quantum Computation

85.06 8

PHY-806 Thermal Physics 81.02 16

PHY-916 Group Theory for Physicists 79.32 3

MATH-372 Special Relativity 90.06 16

PHY-918 Introduction to Quantum Optics 79.00 5

PHY-921 Plasma Physics 86.30 10

PHY-112 Applied Physics-II 77.55 29

19

PHY-922 Nanophysics 89.50 8

PHY-922 Nanophysics 85.50 2

PHY-925 Optical Properties and Spectroscopy of Nanomaterials

81.67 9

PHY-902 Quantum Field Theory-I 92.72 3

Fall

20

14

PHY-803 Quantum Mechanics 84.20 10

PHY-106 Mechanics 84.00 1

MATH-477 Electrodynamics 94.10 10

PHY-807 Topics in Mathematical Physics 83.28 8

PHY-901 Advanced Quantum Mechanics 100.00 1

PHY-801 Classical Mechanics 88.70 10

PHY-924 Experimental Techniques in Physics 89.00 5

PHY-106 Mechanics 87.84 13

PHY-920 Classical Field Theory 91.20 5

PHY-922 Nanophysics 84.34 3

Spri

ng

20

15

PHY-907 General Relativity 77.00 1

PHY-903 Foundations of Quantum Mechanics 100.00 1

PHY-806 Thermal Physics 94.18 11

PHY-914 Particle Physics-I 97.00 1

PHY-918 Introduction to Quantum Optics 87.57 7

PHY-921 Plasma Physics 88.50 2

PHY-925 Optical properties and Spectroscopy of Materials

89.17 6

PHY-926 Condensed Matter Physics 99.00 1

PHY-107 Electricity & Magnetism 87.32 28

PHY-107 Electricity and Magnetism 78.88 33

PHY-922 Nano Physics 92.33 6

PHY-902 Quantum Field Theory-I 78.33 3

Fall

20

15

PHY-201 Modern Physics 79.44 21

PHY-801 Classical Mechanics 91.29 16

PHY-803 Quantum Mechanics 92.88 29

MATH-205 Differential Equations for Physicists 85.90 53

PHY-102 Applied Physics 66.74 49

MATH-206 Linear Algebra for Physicists 69.00 53

PHY-106 Mechanics 76.64 45

PHY-805 Electromagnetism 93.80 27

PHY-106 Mechanics 79.04 40

PHY-924 Experimental Techniques of Physics 84.27 26

PHY101 Applied Physics 80.72 60

PHY-202 Waves & Oscillation 78.25 52

20

PHY-807 Topics in Mathematical Physics 94.67 29

Table 1-4.1: Statistics for LMS for Student Course Evaluation Questionnaire

Student Feedback for Teachers: The following Table 1-4.2 shows students’ feedback for teachers for

Spring 2014 to Fall 2015 semester.

Remsrks:

The average of feedbacks shows that stuents are satisfied from the teaching of the faculty.

Teacher Name Subject Average No of

Students

Spri

ng

20

14

Dr. Aeysha Khalique PHY-923 Quantum Information and Quantum Computation

85.06 8

Prof. Asghar Qadir PHY-806 Thermal Physics 81.02 16

Dr. Rizwan Khalid

PHY-916 Group Theory for Physicists

79.32 3

MATH-372 Special Relativity 90.06 16

Dr. Shahid Iqbal PHY-918 Introduction to Quantum Optics

79.00 5

Dr. Muddasir Ali Shah PHY-921 Plasma Physics 86.30 10

PHY-112 Applied Physics-II 77.55 29

Dr. Faheem Amin PHY-922 Nanophysics 89.50 8

PHY-922 Nanophysics 85.50 2

Dr. Qurat ul Ain Javed PHY-925 Optical Properties and Spectroscopy of Nanomaterials

81.67 9

Dr. Naeem Shahid PHY-902 Quantum Field Theory-I 92.72 3

Fall

20

14

Prof. Asghar Qadir PHY-803 Quantum Mechanics 84.20 10

Dr. Aeysha Khalique PHY-106 Mechanics 84.00 1

Dr. Rizwan Khalid

MATH-477 Electrodynamics 94.10 10

PHY-807 Topics in Mathematical Physics

83.28 8

Dr. Shahid Iqbal PHY-901 Advanced Quantum Mechanics

100.00 1

Dr. Muddasir Ali Shah PHY-801 Classical Mechanics 88.70 10

Dr. Qurat Ul Ain Javed PHY-924 Experimental Techniques in Physics

89.00 5

Dr. Naeem Shahid PHY-106 Mechanics 87.84 13

PHY-920 Classical Field Theory 91.20 5

21

Dr. Faheem Amin PHY-922 Nanophysics 84.34 3

Spri

ng

20

15

Prof. Asghar Qadir

PHY-907 General Relativity 77.00 1

PHY-903 Foundations of Quantum Mechanics

100.00 1

Dr. Aeysha Khalique PHY-806 Thermal Physics 94.18 11

Dr. Rizwan Khalid PHY-914 Particle Physics-I 97.00 1

Dr. Shahid Iqbal PHY-918 Introduction to Quantum Optics

87.57 7

Dr. Muddasir Ali Shah PHY-921 Plasma Physics 88.50 2

Dr. Qurat Ul Ain Javed PHY-925 Optical properties and Spectroscopy of Materials

89.17 6

Dr. Naeem Shahid

PHY-926 Condensed Matter Physics

99.00 1

PHY-107 Electricity & Magnetism 87.32 28

Dr. Syed Rizwan Hussain

PHY-107 Electricity and Magnetism

78.88 33

PHY-922 Nano Physics 92.33 6

Dr. Muhammad Ali Paracha

PHY-902 Quantum Field Theory-I 78.33 3

Fall

20

15

Prof. Asghar Qadir PHY-201 Modern Physics 79.44 21

Dr. Aeysha Khalique PHY-801 Classical Mechanics 91.29 16

Dr. Rizwan Khalid

PHY-803 Quantum Mechanics 92.88 29

MATH-205 Differential Equations for Physicists

85.90 53

Dr. Shahid Iqbal

PHY-102 Applied Physics 66.74 49

MATH-206 Linear Algebra for Physicists

69.00 53

Dr. Muddasir Ali Shah PHY-106 Mechanics 76.64 45

PHY-805 Electromagnetism 93.80 27

Dr. Qurat ul Ain Javed

PHY-106 Mechanics 79.04 40

PHY-924 Experimental Techniques of Physics

84.27 26

Dr. Syed Rizwan Hussain

PHY101 Applied Physics 80.72 60

PHY-202 Waves & Oscillation 78.25 52

Dr. Muhammad Ali Paracha

PHY-807 Topics in Mathematical Physics

94.67 29

Table 1-4.2: Final Student Feedback for Teachers from LMS (subject wise)

Table1-4.3: Faculty Course Review Report from LMS

Remarks:

22

Faculty Course Review Reports for different courses submitted by the relevant faculty members. are available in the department. In these reports faculty members have given their feedbacks about the courses. These reports will be used in curriculum revision.

Survey of Department Offering PhD Programs Survey of the department offering PhD programs is available in the department

Achievements, Honors and Awards of mathematics department during 2011-2013.

S/No

.

Name of Recipient

of Award

Name of Award,

Honour,

Achievements

Date of

Award

Name of

Awarding

Organization

a. Prof. Asghar Qadir Life time achievement

award 2011 PAS

b. Prof. Asghar Qadir Hilal-I-Imtiaz 2012 GOP

Details of international conferences organized by SNS (2004-2015). are given in the following

table.

Sr. No. Name of Conference Dates

1st Italian Pakistan workshop on Relativistic Astrophysics,

Leccee, Italy in collaboration with University of Salento, Italy

June 20-22, 2007

2nd Italian Pakistan workshop on Relativistic Astrophysics,

Pescara, Italy in collaboration with University of Salento, Italy

July 8-10, 2009

1 3rd Italian Pakistan workshop on Relativistic Astrophysics,

Leccee, Italy in collaboration with University of Salento, Italy

Jun 20-22 2011

2 NUST Conference on Mathematical Sciences (NCMS~2011),

SNS, NUST, Islamabad

Nov 17-19 2011

3 NUST Conference on Applications and Methods in Physics, SNS,

NUST, Islamabad

Nov 21-22 2011

4 4th Italian-Pakistani Workshop on Relativistic Astrophysics, SNS,

NUST, Islamabad

Feb 15-17 2013

5 Symmetries, Differential Equations and Applications (SDEA), Jan 27-30 2014

23

SNS, NUST, Islamabad

6 International Workshop on Solutions of Differential Equations

from Transformed Techniques, COMSTECH, Islamabad

Jan 30 –Feb 01,

2014

7 International Workshop on Discrete Structures (IWODS 2014) Mar 05-07, 2014

8 6th International Conference on Recent Developments in Fluid

Mechanics

Mar 17-19, 2015

Following table shows the number of publications and impact factor for each year.

Year

Number of ISI

Publications

Total Impact Factor Number of NON-

ISI Publications

2004 4 2.496 -

2005 3 2.211 1

2006 6 5.211 1

2007 25 27.783 6

2008 28 43.412 4

2009 35 71.25 12

2010 49 99.418 10

2011 57 96.988 6

2012 66 96.228 8

2013 51 77.509 8

2014 83 113.075 20

Faculty Survey

The department was able to collect responses from faculty. The results are obtained from NUST website. The purpose of this survey is to assess the feedback from faculty about the Department environment. The result is as follows:

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

What are the best programs / factors currently available in your department that enhance your

motivation and job satisfaction? Suggestions:

a. Undergrade program and discussion with colleagues

31

b. Although not upto the mark, but relatively good research environment as compared to other

universities

c. Discussion with faculty over tea meeting, feedback from students, chances of research

d. Friendly environment, and academic discussion with other colleagues enhance motivation to

learn now things

e. Environment awing physics facuty

f. Cooperation of the colleagues

Suggest programs / factors that could improve your motivation and job satisfaction? Suggestions:

a. More discussion on issues in physics will motivate students as well as faculty member

b. Less teaching load and reducing the administrative duties can improve the focus on teaching and

research

c. More opportunity for research, timely guidance about policies etc.

d. In order to progress in research in a good idea to reduce teaching load i.e. 3-courses per year

e. Job security should be clearer, trends should be available for research conferences and process

of appreciation should be less fedious

f. PhD Program

Remarks: The facuty in general find the enviorement friendly in the department. Their main concern is the administrative duties which are affecting their research.

Criterion 2: Curriculum Design & Organization

Degree Title

PhD in Physics

Definition of the Credit Hour

One credit hour requires one contact hour a week in class or three contact hours a week of

laboratory work per semester. (A class of 50 minutes = 1 credit hour, a lab of three hours = 1

credit hour of lab.)

32

Degree Plan

A PhD student is required to complete 18 credit hours course work with CGPA 3.5 or more. Usually, the first two semesters consist of course work. In these semesters student selects courses of his/her own choice from the offered courses in that semester. These courses are offered from the list of approved courses. Each student, then, must qualify comprehensive exams. The comprehensive exam consists of both written and oral (defense of synopsis) exam. After that student enters into the research phase where he/she write and defend thesis for 36 credit hours for the completion of degree.

Assessment of MS Physics Curriculum

Standard 2-1: The curriculum must be consistent and supports the program documented

objectives.

Following table shows how the group of courses support the program documented

objectives:

Courses or

group of

courses

Objectives

1 2 3 4 5

Optional 1-6 Advanced

Physics

concepts. Skills

and tools

Analyze and

model real

world

problems

to think and

work

independently

to pursuit

higher

learning

Thesis Research

culture

career of

innovation

training

students in

research

methodology

to pursuit

higher

learning

presentation

skills in report

writing

Table 4: Courses versus Program Objectives

(Standard 2-1 requirement)

Theory, Problem Analysis & Solution Design

Standard 2-2: Theoretical background, problems analysis and solution design must be

stressed within the program’s core material.

Requirements for the Program Curriculum

33

Standard 2-3: The curriculum must satisfy the core requirements for the program, as

specified by the respective accreditation body.

The PhD degree requires a total of at least 54 credit hours comprises of 18 credits of courses and thirty six credits for the thesis which meets HEC requirement. Standard 2-4: The curriculum must satisfy the major requirements for the program, as

specified by the respective accreditation body.

The PhD program in physics satisfies all the requirement of HEC. Standard 2-5: The curriculum must satisfy general education, arts, and professional and

other discipline requirements for the program, as specified by the respective accreditation

body. Not Applicable

Comparison of SNS Physics Program with HEC Requirements

Following table shows a comparison of the PhD Physics Program at SNS with HEC proposed program. Semester-wise Breakdown

Course Work HEC Proposed PhD Physics Program at SNS First Semester

Course Title Cr. Hours Course Title Cr. Hours Optional -1 3 Optional -1 3 Optional -2 3 Optional -2 3 Optional -3 3 Optional -3 3

Second Semester

Optional -1 3 Optional -1 3 Optional -2 3 Optional -2 3 Optional -3 3 Optional -3 3

Total 18 18 Course work of 18 credit hours preferably in the first year is required to be completed and followed by a comprehensive examination for granting candidacy as PhD research.

Research Work

HEC Proposed PhD Physics Program at SNS Comprehensive Examination Comprehensive Examination before

starting the research work PhD Thesis Credit Hours are not fixed 36 Credit Hours Research Paper Acceptance/publication of at least

one research paper in an HEC approved “X” category journal is a

Acceptance/publication of at least two research papers in an HEC approved journals/ international conferences of repute out of which at least one paper must be accepted/ published in an HEC approved “X” category journal;

Only those publications will be considered in which student is the first author

Plagiarism Test The Plagiarism Test must be conducted on the Dissertation before its submission to the two foreign experts

The Plagiarism Test must be conducted on the Thesis before its submission to the two foreign experts

34

Evaluation of thesis

by at least two PhD experts from technologically/academically advanced foreign countries in addition to local Committee

by at least two PhD experts from technologically/academically advanced foreign countries in addition to local Committee (GEC)

Defense of Dissertation

An open defense of Dissertation is essential part of PhD Program after positive evaluation

An open defense of Dissertation is essential part of PhD Program after positive evaluation

From the above table, it is clear that the PhD Physics Program at SNS is in line with the HEC requirements.

Information Technology Component

Standard 2-6: Information technology component of the curriculum must be integrated

throughout the program.

No course is dedicated for information technology.

Table 6: Courses with Information technology component

(Standard 2-6 requirement)

Course Outlines

For course outlines Annexure- C is attached.

Communication Skills

Standard 2-7: Oral and written communication skills of the students must be developed

and applied in the program. Thesis writing and defense of the thesis is compulsory for all the graduating students. This practice develops oral and written communication skills.

Criterion 3: Laboratories and Computing Facilities

Introduction

There are 3 labs and 3 research rooms in the School of Natural Sciences (SNS), their

names are as follows:

1. Computer lab 2. Research room 1 3. Research room 2 4. Research room 3

The detailed information about all the above mentioned labs is as follows:

(1) Computer Lab

Lab In charge: Saqib Hayat

35

Lab Engineer: -- Lab Staff: Zaheer Khan Abbasi Covered Area: 696.88 sqft Objectives: The objective of this lab is to conduct exercises related to

the subject of Physics..

Related Subjects: Physics Major Apparatus:a) 40 Computers

b) 01 Multimedia Projector

(2) Research room 1

Incharge: Saqib Hayat Engineer: --

Lab Staff: Waqas Saleem Covered Area: 373.66 sqft Objectives: The objective of this lab is to conduct research work

related to the subject of physics.

Related Subjects: Physics Major Apparatus: 5 Computers

(3) Research room 2

Incharge: Saqib Hayat Lab Engineer: Lab Staff: Waqas Saleem Covered Area: 275.33 sqft Objectives: The objective of this lab is to conduct research work

related to the subject of physics.

Related Subjects: Physics Major Apparatus: 5 Computers

(4) Research room 3

Lab Incharge: Saqib Hayat Lab Engineer: --- Lab Staff: Waqas Saleem Covered Area: 614.33 sqft Objectives: The objective of this lab is to conduct research work

related to the subject of physics. Related Subjects: Physics Major Apparatus: a) 1 Computer

b) 1 Printer c) 1 Scanner

36

(5) Central Physics Lab - 1

Lab In charge: Adil Islam Lab Engineer: -- Lab Staff: -- Covered Area: 684 sqft Objectives: The objective of this lab is to conduct exercises related to

the subject of Physics..

Related Subjects: Physics Major Apparatus: a) 12 Computers b)

(6) Central Physics Lab - II

Lab In charge: Waseem Jamshed Lab Engineer: -- Lab Staff: -- Covered Area: 684 sqft Objectives: The objective of this lab is to conduct exercises related to

the subject of Physics..

Related Subjects: Physics Major Apparatus: a) 12 Computers b)

(7) Nano-Febraction Lab

Incharge: Adil Islam Lab Engineer: -- Lab Staff: -- Covered Area: -- Objectives: The objective of this lab is to conduct research work

related to the subject of physics.

Related Subjects: Physics Major Apparatus: --

Safety Procedures for all Labs

Laboratory Safety Precautions

Never eat, drink or smoke while working in the laboratory.

Do not any equipment unless you are trained and approved as a user by your supervisor.

37

Wear safety glasses or face shields when working with hazardous materials and/or

equipment

Clothing: When handling dangerous substance, wear gloves, laboratory coats, and safety

shield or glasses. Shorts and sandals should not be worn in the lab at any time. Shoes

are required when working in the machine shops.

If you have long hair or loose clothes, make sure it is tied back or confined.

Keep the work area clear of all materials except those needed for your work Coats should

be hung in the hall or placed in locker. Extra books, purses, etc. should be kept away

from equipment that requires air flow or ventilation to prevent overheating.

Equipment Failure - if a place of equipment fails while being used, report it immediately to

your lab assistant or tutor. Never try to fix the problem yourself because you could harm

yourself and others.

If leaving a lab unattended, turn off all ignition sources and lock the doors.

Never pipette anything by mouth.

Know the location of the fire extinguisher, eye wash, and safety shower in your lab and

know how to use them.

Notify your instructor immediately after any injury, fire or explosion, or spill.

Clean up your work area before leaving.

General Safety Guidelines Your personal laboratory safety depends mostly on you.

Never do unauthorized experiments.

Do not touch anything with which you are not completely familiar.

Keep your lab space clean and organized.

Do not leave an on-going experiment unattended.

Always inform your instructor if you break a thermometer. Do not clean mercury yourself.

Never, ever look into any laser beam. No matter how low power or “eye safe” you may

think it is.

Never taste anything. Never pipette by mouth; use a bulb.

Check your glassware for cracks and chips each time your use it. Cracks could cause the

glassware to fall during use and cause serious injury to you or lab mates.

Obtain permission before operating any high voltage equipment.

Maintain unobstructed access to all exits, fire extinguishers, electrical panels, emergency

showers, and eye washes.

Do not use corridors for storage or work areas.

38

Do not store heavy items above table height. Any overhead storage of supplies on top of

cabinets should be limited to lightweight items only.

Standards

Lab Manuals/Documentation/Instructions

Standard 3-1: Laboratory manuals/documentation/instructions for experiments must be

available and readily accessible to faculty and students. Each lab maintains the necessary manuals/instructions for experiments. Faculty members and

students are entitled to get issued these manuals for limited period.

For graduate studies, these laboratories have sufficient facilities and are comparable with other

engineering/sciences institutions in Islamabad.

Adequate Personnel Support for Labs

Standard 3-2: There must be adequate support personnel for instruction and maintaining

the laboratories.

There is adequate lab support in terms of personnel.

Each lab is looked after by a qualified lab staff.

Details of lab staff of the department are as follows:

a. Name: Waseem Jamshid Designation: Lab Technician Qualification: DAE + BS in progress from Federal Urdu Univ. Islamabad

b. Name: Adil Islam Designation: Lab Technician Qualification: DAE + BS in progress from Virtual University Lahore

Adequate Computing Infrastructure and Facilities

Standard 3-3: The University computing infrastructure and facilities must be adequate to

support program’s objectives.

All faculty members and students have access to adequate computing facilities.

All faculty members are provided with PCs in their offices along with accessories.

There are adequate computer labs in the school. Details are already shown above.

These labs are easily accessible by the students and all of them remain open till 05:00 p.m.

The labs and faculty offices are equipped with internet facilities as well.

The computing facilities, in general, are similar to those found in major reputable universities of the world.

Criterion 4: Student Support & Guidance

39

Completion of Program:

Standard 4-1: Courses must be offered with sufficient frequency and number for students

to complete the program in a timely manner. The students are required to study a set of core courses in the first semester. These courses are

offered every year. Optional courses may also be offered twice a year, if required.

Interaction between Students, Faculty and Teaching Assistants:

Standard 4-2: Courses in the major area must be structured to ensure effective interaction

between students, faculty and teaching assistants. All courses are taught by one faculty member at a time. The students can interact with faculty

during office hours. Research students meet their supervisors whenever they need assistance.

Guidance and Qualified Advising:

Standard 4-3: Guidance on how to complete the program must be available to all students

and access to qualified advising must be available to make course decisions and career

choices.

The courses of PhD Physics Program are so structured to ensure effective interaction between students and faculty. The following principles are observed in order to ensure effective interaction between students and faculty in the courses offered:

Classes are made of small number of students.

Students are required to attend their classes regularly and remain punctual in the class.

Faculty members are required to display their office hours as well as announce it to their students.

Each faculty member is advisor of a group of students. Students can share their problems with their respective advisors. These advisors are available to make course decisions as well.

Typically a given PhD Physics course includes as part of the “Course Work” a final exam, two one-hour exams, a number of quizzes, and a number of homework assignments. This scheme encourages students to be in constant contact with their instructors and subject material.

After the completion of 18 credit hours, students start their research work and qualifying the comprehensive exam from the core courses, students start their research work. This activity augments student/faculty interaction.

The complete list of elective courses is given below

Structure of Courses

Code Elective Courses CHs Institute Pre-Requisites

40

PHY 802 Methods of Mathematical Physics 3 SNS None

PHY 804 Differential Equations 3 SNS None

PHY 805 Electromagnetism 3 SNS None

PHY 901 Advanced Quantum Mechanics 3 SNS PHY-803 Quantum Mechanics

PHY 902 Quantum Field Theory-I 3 SNS None

PHY 903 Foundations of Quantum Mechanics 3 SNS PHY-803 Quantum Mechanics

PHY 904 Quantum Field Theory-II 3 SNS PHY-902 Quantum Field Theory-I

PHY 905 Quantum Field Theory-III 3 SNS PHY-904 Quantum Field Theory-II

PHY 906 Geometry 3 SNS None

PHY 907 General Relativity 3 SNS None

PHY 908 Cosmology-I 3 SNS None

PHY 909 Cosmology-II 3 SNS PHY-908 Cosmology-I

PHY 910 Two-Component Spinor Formalism 3 SNS None

PHY 911 Twistor Theory 3 SNS None

PHY 912 Relativistic Astrophysics 3 SNS None

PHY 913 Supermassive Black Holes 3 SNS None

PHY 914 Particle Physics-I 3 SNS None

PHY 915 Particle Physics-II 3 SNS PHY-914 Particle Physics-I

41

PHY 916 Group Theory for Physicists 3 SNS None

PHY 917 Atomic and Molecular

Spectroscopy 3 SNS None

PHY 918 Introduction to Quantum Optics 3 SNS None

PHY 919 Astrophysics 3 SNS None

PHY 920 Classical Field Theory 3 SNS None

PHY 921 Plasma Physics 3 SNS None

PHY 922 Nanophysics 3 SNS None

PHY 923 Quantum Information and Quantum

Computation 3 SNS None

PHY 924 Experimental Techniques of Physics 3 SNS None

PHY 925 Optical Properties and Spectroscopy

of Nanomaterials 3 SNS None

PHY 926 Condensed Matter Physics 3 SNS None

PHY 927 Atom Optics 3 SNS None

PHY 961 Reading and Research-I 3 SNS None

PHY 962 Reading and Research-II 3 SNS PHY-961 Reading and Research-I

PHY 963 Reading and Research-III 3 SNS PHY-962 Reading and Research-II

PHY 971 Courses from Other NUST

Institutions 3 SNS

PHY 981 Seminar Attendance (Non Credit) 0 SNS

PHY 982 Seminar Delivered – G (Non Credit) 0 SNS

42

PHY 984 Seminar Delivered – R (Non Credit) 0 SNS

PHY 899 Dissertation M.Phil 6 SNS

PHY 999 Thesis PhD 36 SNS

Guidance to Students

Upon joining NUST handbooks are given to all students. The handbook contains detailed information about

Degree program

Semester system

Graduation requirements

Examinations policy

Retest policy

Failure conditions

Relegation conditions

Withdrawal conditions

Cheating and plagiarism penalties

Relevant program requirements In addition to this, these instructions are also available to students on the school website.

Student Counseling & Advisory System

Every faculty member is assigned a group of students (MS) to act as official advisor of that group.

The advisor formally spends some time with the group discussing various issues of concern with students, updating them on administrative policies and listening to and solving their problems.

The students of the group are free to contact their advisor whenever they need guidance.

Utmost importance is given to the privacy and personal concerns of the students in such matters.

Criterion 5: Process Control

Standard 5-1: The process by which students are admitted to the program must be based

on quantitative and qualitative criteria and clearly documented. This process must be

periodically evaluated to ensure that it is meeting its objectives.

PhD Program at Department of Physics, School of Natural Sciences, NUST

43

This section explains the criteria and procedure of entrance to National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) in general. Department of Physics follows the same guidelines.

Eligibility Criteria

For admission in the PhD program, GAT is mandatory and the result of last degree is

also important. Admissions are open to all students irrespective of the gender.

Entrance Examination

For admission in the program eligible candidates appear in an interview. Date of interview is sent by e-mail or post

Selection Procedure

A list of selected candidates shall be prepared and send to HQ NUST for the completion of

necessary official requirements.

Waiting List

There will be no waiting list.

Rejection of Application

Any irregularity in the application may lead to its rejection

Migration

In PhD Physics migration from any other national or international institute is not allowed.

International Students

Admission

The eligibility criterion for foreign students is same as for local students.

Entrance Test

Foreign students/Pakistanis living abroad also appear in the interview.

Merit List

44

There is no merit list.

Clearance

Cases of foreign students, finally selected for admission in NUST constituent

colleges/institutes will be referred to the Govt. of Pakistan for clearance. Security clearance will

be obtained from the concerned authorities as per the requirement. Those who could not able to

get clearance will not be eligible for admission.

Accommodation

Accommodation to the foreign students under NUST arrangement is preferred.

Standards

School sends recommendations/ deficiencies to the main office NUST. Main office NUST

sends offer letters to eligible students.

Admissions Process

The admissions process is described in detail in Criterion 5-1.

Program Registration and Monitoring

Standard 5-2: The process by which students are registered in the program and monitoring

of students progress to ensure timely completion of the program must be documented. This

must be periodically evaluated to ensure that it is meeting with its objectives. Completed registration forms are sent to NUST main office. On receipt of registration cards, the same are distributed among the students. NUST main office is responsible for the registration of the students.

The contents of all new courses are evaluated in a departmental meeting where all the shortcomings or improvements are suggested and incorporated. After getting approval from Faculty Board of Studied (FBS) and then from Academic Council Meeting (ACM) the courses are offered. The students are also asked to submit an evaluation report of each course. This evaluation or student feedback is also discussed with individuals and shortcomings are identified and remedial measures are taken to improve upon previous performances.

The department follows NUST statutes which clearly state the graduation criteria. The analysis that whether a student meets the graduation criteria is done by the Examination Branch at School of Natural Sciences and strictly follows the NUST policy in this regard.

Recruiting and Training Highly Qualified Faculty

Standard 5-3: The process of recruiting and retaining highly qualified faculty members

must be in place and clearly documented. Also process and procedures for faculty

45

evaluation, promotion must be consistent with institution mission statement. These

processes must be periodically evaluated to ensure that it is meeting its objectives. SNS has a strict policy of hiring or recommending the faculty of only the highest calibre. This

process starts with receipt of CV and application from an interested individual who wishes to join our department. The application is discussed in house first with the department faculty and then, if found capable, with the Principal. If the applicant meets baseline criteria, he/she is invited for an interview and asked to prepare a presentation in his/her area of interest. This presentation is attended by faculty of the department. Faculty members from other departments and heads of other departments may also join the session. The applicant is evaluated on the basis of various parameters including presentation skills, teaching ability, research potential, expression etc.

If the applicant is considered well suited for the job, the case is sent to the HR Dte main office NUST for final selection.

Standard 5-4: The process and procedures used to ensure that teaching and delivery of

course material to the students emphasizes active learning and that course learning

outcomes are met. The process must be periodically evaluated to ensure that it is meeting

its objectives.

To ensure that the teaching and delivery of course material to the students is meeting the required standards, the Head of the Department visits each course class at least twice per semester and a written report is prepared according to the prescribed proforma (as shown below in NUST proforma on Class Audit Report). In the light of this report, the teaching is assessed and in case of any deficiency, the teacher is advised in time to take ample and required measures. This class audit is included in the final ACR of the teacher.

Further, the students give Faculty Feedback twice a semester which assesses the teacher’s performance and his/her justification towards the course material covered and its understanding.

The students submit a Course Evaluation Report at the end of the semester and the suggestions and input from the students is recorded for future improvement.

46

Performance Evaluation of Faculty – NUST

Class Audit Report

(to be filled by the Reporting Officer)

Course Code: Course Title:

Instructor: Class:

5 4 3 2 1

Excellent Very Good Good Average Poor

Topic: Date:

Sr. # Areas Being

Evaluated

Comments Rating

1. Objective & Goals The faculty made a clear statement of the objectives of the session at the

beginning of class or at another appropriate time

2. Preparation The faculty was well prepared for class with necessary materials

3. Subject Matter Expertise The faculty presented material at a level appropriate to the course

4. Teaching Methodology When appropriate, the faculty combined methods of instruction (instruction

(visual, auditory, etc) to accommodate various student learning styles

5. Responsiveness The professor was attentive to student questions and comments and provided

clear explanations and examples

6. Classroom Management The faculty demonstrated effective classroom management skills

7. Organization The faculty presented the material in an organized manner

8. Clarity The faculty presented instructional material clearly

9. Respect The faculty encourages mutual respect

Non-Classroom Observations

10. Course outline The faculty syllabus conforms to the existing course outline of record

11. Syllabus The faculty’s syllabus includes a description of course content, contact

information, office hours if applicable, the means by which students will be

evaluated, grading standards and other relevant information

12. Student Evaluation

Process

The faculty participated in the evaluation in professional and timely manner in

light of Part II, Chapter 04 of NUST statutes

13. Professional

Obligation

The faculty meets professional obligations outside of class (submits rosters

and grades on time)

14. Curriculum Development Adds and introduces new techniques for effective teaching. The faculty

reviews the curriculum in the light of latest developments/requirements

Page 1

47

Performance Evaluation of Faculty – NUST

Sr. # Areas Being

Evaluated

Comments Rating

15. Student Facilitation The Faculty assists and facilities the students during office hours

and provides necessary guidance

16. Value addition The faculty related theory with practical problems and establishers

relevance of the industry with academic concepts

17. Fairness The faculty treats and evaluates all the students fairly

18. Conduct of

lab/projects

The faculty conducts the lab/projects timely and effectively

19. Punctual Conduct of

Assessment Means

Assignments, quizzes, one hour tests, mid term and final

examinations were designed, conducted, marked and discussed on

time

20. Knowledge of NUST

statues

Faculty has clear understanding & knowledge of the NUST statues

regarding academic standards & related requirements

21. Total Marks:

Total Points Scored based on the following formula =

For Teaching Focused : (Total Marks ÷ 100 x 20)

For Research Focused : (Total Marks ÷ 100 x 5)

For Hybrid Focused : (Total Marks ÷ 100 x 10)

a. Strong Areas:

b. Suggestions to Improve: He/She has been advised to:

(Name and Signature)

48

Page 2

Standard 5-5: The process that ensures that graduates have completed the requirements of

the program must be based on standards, effective and clearly documented procedures.

This process must be periodically evaluated to ensure that it is meeting its objectives.

To ensure that the students are meeting the requirements of completing the course:

Attendance is maintained on LMS and is updated regularly. The deficient students are warned in time to recover. A student failing to meet the attendance requirement is disallowed to sit in the final exam according to the NUST Rules.

The students are given appropriate number of quizzes, assignments, projects and presentations which are evaluated and assessed throughout the semester. This activity reflects the understanding level of the students for the course. Any measures required are then taken and the students are duly notified of any deficiencies.

Two Sessional/One Hour Tests are conducted during the semester. The questions in these exams are selected according the course taught and to check the understanding of the student. The result from the sessional exams gives a clear picture whether or not the students have met the objectives of the course.

Before the final exam, the students are given the aggregate result of the assessments carried till then which gives a clear picture to the student to set their targets and recover any deficiencies. This helps the student to give attention to the ignored material of the course and cover it in time.

The final result is discussed at the departmental level and each deficient student is assessed individually. The grading for each course is discussed in the departmental board of studies and later approved in the Faculty board of studies meeting. In light of the discussion through FBS, appropriate actions are taken.

In most deficient cases, not only the students are advised by their respective advisors (advisors are the faculty members in the department) but also their parents are informed, if required, to take measures for improvement.

Criterion 6: Faculty

Adequate coverage of program areas:

Standard 6-1: There must be enough full time faculty who are committed to the program to

provide adequate coverage of the program areas/courses with continuity and stability. The

interests and qualifications of all faculty members must be sufficient to teach all courses,

plan, modify and update courses and curricula. All faculty members must have a level of

competence that would normally be obtained through graduate work in the discipline. All

faculty must hold a PhD in the discipline. As a reputed institution of higher scientific and technical education in the country, NUST

seeks excellence in all of its programs and activities. High quality dedicated faculty is a cardinal aspect of NUST's programs. The excellent teacher-to-student ratio in the constituent colleges and institutes ensures that instruction, research and development are integrated to make the institution innovative and responsive. All faculty members at the Department of Physics hold PhD degree and they are full-time faculty members. They are committed to the program development and course coverage in

49

addition to maintaining academic standards. The interest and qualifications of the faculty members are sufficient to plan, teach, modify and update all offered MS courses, and curriculum.

Full-Time Faculty

The list of full-time faculty members of the Department of Physics is shown in the following table:

Sr. # Name Designation

1. Prof. Asghar Qadir Professor Emeritus

2. Dr. Aeysha Khalique HOD Physics

3. Dr. Rizwan Khalid Assistant Professor

4. Dr. Shahid Iqbal Assistant Professor

5. Dr. Faheem Amin Assistant Professor (on leave)

6. Dr. M.Ali Paracha Assistant Professor

7. Dr. Muddasir Ali Shah Assistant Professor

8. Dr. Qurat ul Ain Javed Assistant Professor (on leave)

9. Dr. M. Naeem Shahid Assistant Professor (on leave)

10. Dr. Syed Rizwan Hussain Assistant Professor

The following table indicates the various program areas and the number of faculty

members in each area:

Program Areas of Specialization

Courses Offered in Each Area Number of Faculty

Members

Number of Faculty with PhD Degree

High Energy Physics Classical Field Theory, Quantum Field

Theory,-I Particle Physics-I

3 3

General Relativity and Cosmology

General Relativity and Cosmology 1 1

Quantum Optics and Quantum Information Theory

Quantum Optics and Quantum Information Theory

2 2

Plasma Physics Plasma Physics 1 1

Experimental Physics

Nano Technology 3 3

Faculty members have their complete resumes included in Annexure-D.

50

Time for Scholarly Activities:

Standard 6-2: All faculty members must remain current in the discipline and sufficient time

must be provided for scholarly activities and professional development. Also, effective

programs for faculty development must be in place. NUST sponsors PhD study and research for outstanding faculty members. Faculty

members are regularly sent abroad for presenting papers or to attend conferences. Faculty member desirous of going abroad for postdoctoral research are encouraged to do so by allowing them leave for this purpose. Faculty members can apply for postdoctoral program with full support from NUST and other sponsored programs.

In addition to all the above mentioned compelling packages, university provides access

to the digital resources to add value into the learning and research environment. The digital resources include publication from all academic institutes, consulting firms and books in the electronic form.

Motivation and Job Satisfaction:

Standard 6-3: All faculty members should be motivated and have job satisfaction to excel in

their profession. Faculty input through a survey on programs for faculty motivation and job satisfaction is

carried out. The purpose of this survey is to assess faculty members’ satisfaction level and the effectiveness of programs in place to help them progress and excel in their profession. The report of a survey is given in Criterion 1-4.

Criterion 7: Institutional Facilities

New Trends in Learning:

Standard 7-1: The institution must have the infrastructure to support new trends in

learning such as e-learning. The faculty and students have access to computers and internet. The technical support

personnel are readily accessible and work hard to troubleshoot and fix problems related with hardware and software. Printing and copying facilities are also available for the faculty members within the department. All of the above factors help in implementing modern trends in learning, including e-Learning.

Library Facilities:

Standard 7-2: The library must possess an up-to-date technical collection relevant to the

program and must be adequately staffed with professional personnel.

SNS has a library with covered area of 608 sqft. It has around 2260 hard copies of books and about 2500 electronic copies (from free resources) of books. The library of SNS has a reasonable collection of books to meet the requirements of the School. The library not only provides course and reference books for the students but also maintains resources for the research students. Library staff comprises of an experienced Library Assistant who is assisted by one Library Attendant.

Library Equipment: -

(1) Photostat Machine – One (2) Personal Computer for online search – One (3) Personal Computer for Catalog Search – One

51

(4) Personal Computer for CDROM Search – One (5) Dell Server – One (6) Laser Printer – One (7) Dot Matrix Printer – Nil (8) Scanner – One

Journals:- Subscription to following journals through online search access:

(1) Full Access of HEC digital library. (2) General Relativity and Gravitation from 2005-2007 in H/B.

Magazines:-

National Geographic - Continue Science Illustrated – 2012 editions Physics Today – 2012 editions American Physics – 2012 editions

Classrooms and Faculty Offices:

Standard 7-3: Classrooms must be adequately equipped and offices must be adequate to

enable faculty to carry out their responsibilities.

Classrooms

Classrooms are equipped with adequate desks and chairs for students. All classrooms are air conditioned. Most of the classrooms are equipped with computes, multimedia projects, slide screens, speakers and other educational aids. Each classroom also has a white board with adequate supply of markers and erasers. It is ensured that classrooms are properly ventilated and hygienically conditioned.

Faculty Offices

Each faculty member at the School is allocated office space. Some faculty members are allocated independent offices whereas others have shared offices. Due to the shortage of offices in the school, some faculty members are provided offices in other School of NUST. Each faculty member is provided a personal computer with internet connectivity. Individual desk space with regular supply of stationary is available. Printing facility is also provided to all faculty members.

Hostel Facilities

NUST provides a reasonable hostel facility.

52

Convocation Hall/ Auditorium:

There is no auditorium in the School, however, NUST has an auditorium named as Jinnah Auditorium to organize convocations, seminars and other such activities.

Sports Facilities:

There are reasonable sports facilities available.

Transport Facilities:

NUST provides transportation to all willing students, faculty and staff.

Medical Facilities:

There is a medical centre in the campus where qualified doctors including a female doctor are available round the clock for necessary consultation and treatment.

Criterion 8: Institutional Support

Standard 8-1: There must be sufficient support and financial resources to attract and retain

high quality faculty and provide the means for them to maintain competence as teachers

and scholars. In general, NUST has been successful in securing sufficient support and financial

resources to attract excellent faculty members and to provide all possible means to maintain competence in teaching and scholarly work.

Faculty Retaining Measures

NUST has a good promotion policy so that a faculty member is promoted to the next rank soon after he/she becomes eligible.

NUST provides on campus accommodation to a large proportion of faculty members.

NUST provides on campus free outdoor medical facility and a comprehensive medical insurance policy.

NUST has introduced Gratuity and Defined Contribution Pension scheme for NUST contractual employees, as end of contract benefits.

On campus Day Care Center and Montessori School for children and pick and drop facility to in living who study in schools outside the campus.

Research Support

Standard 8-2: There must be adequate number of high quality graduate students, research

assistants and Ph.D. Research Support is provided to all the students interested in research and development

activities in their areas of interest. This support includes funding for Fee Waiver / TVF for

53

Courses and Lab Demonstrations. NUST also provides NUST need base scholarships to a large

number of deserving students.

Standard 8-3: Financial resources must be provided to acquire and maintain library

holdings, laboratories and computing facilities.

Support and Facilities for the Faculty

Computer Facilities are available to all faculty members Internet Facility is available to all faculty members in office and also WiFi. Technical Support is available in terms of System Administrator and lab technician. Secretarial Support is available to the head of the School. Office Equipment is adequately available in terms of stationary, printers, supplies, furniture, audio/video conferencing equipment, air conditioners and telephones.

Graduate Students, Research Assistants and PhD Students

Year Graduate Students

PhDs Research Assistants (Lab Demonstrators)

2004 0 0 0

2005 0 0 0 2006 0 0 0 2007 0 0 0 2008 3 0 0 2009 7 0 2010 6 0 2011 18 0 3 2012 15 3 14 2013 27 1 17 2014 22 4 17 2015 22 1 22

Current Graduate Student / Faculty Ratio is as per the NUST standards.

Financial Resources for Library

Financial resources for library, labs and computing facilities are excellent. The detailed list of library equipment was presented in Criterion 7. The following table presents the financial resources for library during the last three years:

Library Budget (Rs. in Millions)

54

2005-2006 2.0 2006-2007 1.5 2007-2008 1.0

The following is the list of computing facilities available in the School for students:

Lab Computers Laser Printer

Dot-matrix Printer

Color Plotter

Type Qty

Central Physics Lab Dual Core 10 - - - Departmental Physics Lab Dual Core 09 - - - Under Graduate Computing Lab Core I-7 37 - - - Research Cubicles (PhD Scholars) Dual Core 01 1 - - Research Cubicles (MPhil Scholars) - M Core 2 Due 05 - - - Research Cubicles (MPhil Scholars) - F Core 2 Due 05 - - - Library Dual Core 04 1 - - Laptops for Research Student Laptop 16 - - -

Criterion 9: Research, Development & Innovation

Standard 9-1: The University should provide an environment which is encouraging and

conductive for the RD&I activities. Mention the institutional facilities and incentives for the

RD&I.

Research Support and Collaborations

SNS provides computer and internet facilities and relevant literature to its faculty and

students for research.

On publishing articles in journals, cases of relevant researches are recommended to

Research Dte. for publication reward.

Researchers are encouraged to develop research collaborations at national/international

levels. In this regard, different international collaborations have been developed. Details

are given in the following table:

S. No. MoU Signing Organizations Signing

Date

Expiry Date Visits (2014-15)

1. Department of Mathematics and

Physics “Ennio De Giogi”

University of Salento, Arnesano,

Lecce, Italy

July,

2012

11 July,

2016

Prof. Asghar Qadir visited Department

of Mathematics & Physics of Salento

University, Lecce, Italy during June 30

to July 18, 2015 vide QA letter no.

0972/02/NUST/NIO (IC) dated 29 May,

2015.

Support from NUST: Travel expenses

of Rs. 9,000/-

Support from Lecce, Italy: Remaining

55

full support

2. Research Institute for

Mathematical Sciences, Kyoto

University, Japan

17 Nov,

2011

16 Nov,

2016

3. Abdus Salam International Centre

for Theoretical Physics (AS-ICTP)

Italy

2 April,

2015

31 Dec,

2016 Dr. Shahid Iqbal visited Abdus Salam

International Centre for Theoretical

Physics (AS-ICTP), Italy during 08-21

February, 2015 vide QA letter no.

0972/02/NUST/NIO (IC) dated 2

December, 2014.

Support from NUST: Nil

Support from AS-ICTP, Italy: Full

support

Prof. Asghar Qadir, visited Abdus

Salam International Centre for

Theoretical Physics (AS-ICTP), Italy

during 23 June to 22 August, 2014 vide

vide QA letter no. 0972/02/NUST/QA

(IC) dated 15 May, 2014.

Support from NUST: Some local

travel support

Support from AS-ICTP, Italy:

Remaining full support

4. Yukawa Institute for Theoretical

Physics, Kyoto University, Japan

26 Dec,

2013

25 Dec,

2018

Dr. Mubasher Jamil visited Yukawa

Institute for Theoretical Physics, Kyoto

University, Kyoto, Japan during 18 August

to 20 September 2014 vide QA letter no.

0972/02/NUST/NIO dated 7 August, 2014.

Support from NUST: Nil

Support from Kyoto University,

Japan: Full support

5. Moulay Ismail University, Marjane

2, BP: 298, Meknes, Maroc

1

February

, 2014

Indefinite

period

6. The Computer Simulation, Inje

University, Gimhae, Korea

Mar 19,

2015

18 March,

2019

7. School of Material Science and

Engineering, University of Science

and Technology, Beijing

July,

2014

Indefinite

period

Dr. Qurat Ul Ain visited University of

Science & Technology Beijing (USTB)

during 16 June – 15 July, 2014 vide QA

letter no. 0972/02/NUST/QA (IC) dated 9

56

June, 2014.

Support from NUST: Ticket (both

ways) & Living Allowance

Support from USTB, Beijing: Local

hospitality

S. No MoU Signing Organizations Date of Signing Expiry Date Remarks

1. Head School of Mining

Engineering (Wits Mining)

05 September

2012

2 nominees will

spend 6 months with

Wits Mining

Laboratories

Technicians in 2013

or 2014 at Wits

Mining

2. Abdus Salam International

Centre for Theoretical Physics

(As-ICTP) Italy

01 January 2010 31st December,

2012

3. Universita Del Salento (Formally

known as universita Di Lecce),

Italy

March 2007 March 2011

Standard 9-2: The faculty should publish their research in the journals of high repute with

high impact factor (ISI, Scopus Refereed) and present them in high level conferences.

Attach the detailed list of publication in international and national journals and

proceedings of the conferences. Faculty of Physics department at SNS, generally, publishes their work in ISI/Scopus indexed

journals. The detailed list of publication in international and national journals and proceedings of

the conferences is available in the department.

Standard 9-3: The faculty should encourage in collaborative research projects at national

and international level and have a detailed account of projects (completed, on-going and

submitted for funding). Faculty of Physics always tries to submit projects to different funding agencies. Detail of

completed, on-going and submitted and delayed projects is given in Tables 9-3.1, 9-3.2, 9-3.3

and 9-3.4.

Research Projects

Table 9-3.1: Completed Projects

57

S. No Project Title Name of PI Funded

By

Cost (in

Millions)

Progress

% age

Paper

Published

1. Homogenization in Underground

Flows

Dr.

Anvarbeck

Meirmanov

HEC

(FFHP)

1.000 Completed 1

2. Equilibrium and Dynamics of a

Non-isothermal Free Liquid Film

Dr.Vladislav

V.

Pukhnachev

HEC

(FFHP)

1.000 Completed 3

3. Modern Mathematical Analysis for

Phenomena of Anisotropic Diffusion

and Acoustic Wave Propagation in

Porous Media

Dr. Sergei

Sazhenkov

HEC

(FFHP)

1.000 Completed 3

Table 9-3.2: Ongoing Projects

S. No Project Title Name of PI Funded

By

Cost (in

Millions)

Progress

% age

Reasons

for Delay

Publicati

ons

1. Dark Energy and Cosmic

Accelerated Expansion

Dr.

Mubasher

Jamil

HEC

(NRPU)

1.819682 Completed Waiting

for

Installmen

ts

4

2. Classification of Ordinary

Differential Equations by

Linearization and its

Generalizations

Prof. Asghar

Qadir

HEC

(NRPU)

1.000652 65%

Table 9-3.3: Delayed Projects

S. No Project Title Name of PI Funded

By

Cost (in

Millions)

Progress

% age

Reasons

for Delay

Paper

Published

1. Theoretical Studies of

General Relativity

Phenomena in Black

Holes & Gravitation

Lenses

Prof. Alexander

Fyodorovich

Zakharov

HEC

(FFHP)

1.00

Completed PI left

Pakistan

3

58

2. Analysis of Novel

Electromagnetic

Metamaterials

Dr. Muhammad

Raza

HEC

(IPFP)

0.45 Completed Funds not

received

0

Standard 9-4: The department should support faculty in establishing university-industry

linkage and create patent. The relevant information be included in the report. Under Faculty Development Program, Physics department encourages MS students to

complete their PhDs in new emerging areas of Physics.