From Karachi to Mongstad: Zeeshan’s Journey in Science and Sustainability

Muhammad Zeeshan is originally from Karachi, Pakistan, he moved to Norway in 2008, immersing himself in a new culture and expanding his expertise in environmental science. Over the years, he has made significant contributions to the field — combining research, project management, and mentorship.

Now, as Principal Researcher for Environment & HSE at TCM, Zeeshan plays a pivotal role in evaluating cutting-edge carbon capture technologies. From establishing a high-tech analytical lab to collaborating with global experts, his work is driving forward solutions for a more sustainable future.

“How did you become part of the TCM team, Muhammad?”

“I joined TCM through a combination of my academic background and extensive experience in research, project management, and supervising Ph.D. and Master’s students. My passion for amine-based and solid sorbent technologies, coupled with my expertise in Chemistry and analytical instruments, made TCM a perfect match. With a strong foundation in environmental assessments, chemical risk management, laboratory management and reaction mechanism & kinetics, I saw an opportunity to contribute to TCM’s mission. The prospect of advancing TCM’s lab, conducting HSE evaluations of new technologies, and collaborating with vendors made joining the team an exciting career move.”

”How was your move from Pakistan to Norway in 2008?”

“Moving to Norway was a transformative experience, both professionally and personally. I embraced a new culture, learned from diverse perspectives, and found immense opportunities for growth. Norway’s focus on innovation, equal opportunities, and a progressive work environment resonated well with my aspirations. It has been a rewarding journey that has enriched my life in countless ways.“

“What surprised you most about Norwegian culture?”

“The strong emphasis on work-life balance was one of the most surprising aspects. In many countries, long hours are a sign of dedication, but in Norway, efficiency and productivity during work hours are prioritized, while personal time is respected. Another unique aspect was ‘dugnad’—voluntary community work. The willingness of people to contribute to society without obligation reflects the collaborative spirit of Norwegian culture. It was inspiring to see how teamwork and shared responsibility are deeply ingrained in everyday life.”

“What inspired you to work with carbon capture?”

“My passion for carbon capture is deeply rooted in my commitment to sustainability and solving real-world environmental challenges. As a researcher, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles that carbon-intensive industries face in reducing emissions while maintaining efficiency. I was drawn to CCS because it offers a practical and scalable solution to mitigate climate change. The opportunity to develop and refine these technologies excites me every day, knowing that my work can contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.”

“How has your education prepared you for your role at TCM?

“My education provided a solid foundation for my role, equipping me with technical expertise in chemical risk assessment, reaction mechanism & kinetics, and atmospheric chemistry. Understanding the environmental impact of emissions and degradation products has been crucial in assessing carbon capture technologies. Additionally, my studies instilled a problem-solving mindset, enabling me to develop innovative, science-based solutions aligned with TCM’s mission.”

“What is the most exciting aspect of your job at TCM?”

“TCM offers a unique opportunity to test carbon capture technologies on an industrial scale. Collaborating with technology developers and research institutions allows us to solve real-world challenges. I particularly enjoy conducting environmental impact assessments, evaluating chemical risks, and ensuring compliance with HSE regulations. Engaging with the Norwegian Environment Agency and communicating findings is also a fulfilling part of my role.”

“Can you share a specific project at TCM that you’re particularly proud of?”

“I spearheaded an LC-MS (liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry) project, establishing a new lab from scratch. I acquired the LC-MS instrument, developed analytical methods to identify degradation products in CCS projects, and created a research proposal to involve master’s students. This project has become a key part of TCM’s research, demonstrating my 12 years of expertise in analytical instruments and my commitment to mentoring students. It’s rewarding to see our innovative methods contributing to the company’s growth.”

“What do your family and friends say about your job?”

“They see my work as a meaningful contribution to securing the future of our planet. My familiy admire my dedication and ability to balance work with a positive attitude. They often mention how I’m always willing to help others, offer guidance, and stay calm under pressure—traits that I find valuable in both my personal and professional life.”

“What gives you energy and joy at work?”

“Several things fuel my passion: solving complex problems, mentoring students, learning new things, and engaging in dynamic discussions with colleagues. The challenge of innovating and making meaningful contributions to CCS research keeps me motivated every day.”

“What do you think is the biggest challenge in your work?”

“Ensuring compliance with emission permits and preventing environmental violations is a crucial part of my job. Monitoring all emission sources, and minimizing unnecessary disruptions require constant diligence. Maintaining TCM’s strong environmental reputation is a responsibility I take seriously — but it’s also what drives me. The challenge of upholding the highest standards in emissions control pushes me to develop better solutions and continuously improve our processes.”

“Muhammad, if you were to give a colleague a flower, who would it be—and why?”

“There are many amazing colleagues at TCM, but if I had to choose one, I would give a flower to Gøril Nyhammer-Haugen for her kindness and unwavering support. She is always ready to help, bringing positivity and warmth to those around her. Flowers symbolize resilience and encouragement—qualities that perfectly reflect the way she uplifts others and creates a welcoming, motivating work environment.

“What do you value most about your colleagues at TCM?”

“The collaborative spirit and knowledge-sharing culture. We tackle challenges as a team, supporting and inspiring one another. Their expertise and professionalism make every project a valuable learning experience, and their commitment to innovation drives both my professional and personal growth.”

“How do you recharge after a long day at work?”

“I unwind by reflecting on the day’s achievements and planning for the next. Spending time with my twin children, cooking, exercising, and watching movies with my family helps me recharge. I also enjoy helping my eldest son with his homework — it’s a rewarding way to end the day.”

“What advice would you give to someone considering a move to Norway or a career in carbon capture?”

“Norway is a global leader in CCS, with initiatives like Longship and Northern Lights paving the way. Familiarizing yourself with these projects can provide a strong advantage. Developing expertise in engineering, chemistry, environmental science, or project management is crucial, and specialized training or certifications can enhance career prospects in this field.”

“What are your future plans, Muhammad?”

“I aim to take on more challenging projects, expand my expertise in CCS, and lead innovative initiatives. I also want to develop my leadership skills and contribute to groundbreaking solutions in carbon capture and storage.”