With over two decades of experience in sustainable materials research, Dr. Dalour Beg has built a recognised career focused on advancing the science and application of natural fibre composites, cellulose and nanocellulose, biodegradable plastics, and biomaterials. What began as a foundation in fundamental materials science has evolved into a translational research pathway, turning laboratory innovations into real-world, sustainable solutions that benefit both industry and the environment.

In the building and construction sector, Dr. Beg develops high-performance composites using New Zealand’s native fibres such as wood, harakeke (New Zealand flax), and hemp, combined with recycled plastics and paper. This approach not only harnesses renewable resources but also diverts waste from landfills, creating materials that are both functional and environmentally responsible. A key component of this work is the integration of innovative manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing (3D printing), which allows for design flexibility, material efficiency, and the application of design-for-disassembly principles essential to circular product lifecycles.

In the packaging domain, Dr. Beg’s research is centred on replacing fossil-based plastics with biodegradable and compostable alternatives derived from cellulose derivatives and bio-based polymers. One of his most promising developments is a cellulose-based foam designed as a sustainable alternative to expanded polystyrene, an environmentally problematic material due to its difficulty in recycling and persistent ecological harm.

Dr. Beg has successfully secured competitive research funding both nationally and internationally. During his time in Malaysia, he led several major research grants, including the Fundamental Research Grant, Prototype Research Grant, and Transdisciplinary Research Grant, alongside international funding from The World Academy of Science (TWAS). Since moving to New Zealand, he has continued to build on this momentum and currently leads a $1 million MBIE Smart Ideas project  on “Cellulose Foam” and ($350K) He Ara Whakahihiko Capability Fund - Rangapū Rangahau  on “Next Generation Textile from Harakeke”.

His expertise spans a wide range of topics in Materials Science, including:

•                     Natural fibre composites and additive manufacturing

•                     Cellulose and nanocellulose

•                     Sustainable packaging

•                     Cellulose foams

•                     Textile fibre

•                     Circular economy

•                     Biomaterials for drug delivery applications

Dr. Beg has supervised over 20 postgraduate students, including 7 current PhD candidates. He has published more than 140 peer-reviewed journal articles, amassing over 8,500 citations and achieving an h-index of 44 (Google Scholar).

Collaboration remains a keystone of Dr. Beg’s research practice. He maintains active partnerships with industry stakeholders and academic institutions across New Zealand and internationally, and he welcomes new research collaborations, interdisciplinary partnerships, and co-development of grant applications across global networks.