Directory profile for Dr. Amer Ahmad Amer

Amer is a mechanical engineer and former Transport Chief Technologist at Aramco whose career has focused on advanced propulsion systems, low-carbon fuels, and CO₂ mitigation technologies. He established his engineering foundation at Chrysler, where he worked closely with development teams on production-intent engine programs, including the Powertech, HEMI, and Pentastar engine families. His work encompassed combustion simulation, engine design, emissions modeling, hardware optimization, and systems integration, providing deep experience in translating engineering research into practical product development and market introduction.

During his tenure at Aramco, Amer led the development and execution of a global transportation R&D strategy aimed at advancing sustainable mobility technologies. He established and managed major research centers in Detroit, Paris, and Shanghai, growing multidisciplinary teams from a small core group to more than 95 researchers and overseeing R&D investments on the order of tens of millions of dollars annually. Under his leadership, research programs advanced efficient and electrified propulsion systems, ultra-low-emission technologies, low- and zero-carbon fuels, including hydrogen, ammonia, and e-fuels, as well as carbon capture solutions for transportation applications. These efforts resulted in more than 1,170 peer-reviewed publications and over 95 granted patents, reflecting a sustained commitment to innovation and technology impact by his global team.

Amer also led major academic and industry collaborations, creating partnerships with universities, automakers, and technology providers to accelerate research, development, and commercialization. A strong advocate for talent development, he mentored young professionals and supported advanced education, specialist training, and international assignments.

At the University of Alabama, Amer brings this broad industry experience to the Mechanical Engineering program, connecting engineering theory with professional practice through design-focused instruction, experiential learning, applied research, and industry-engaged projects that prepare students to address complex engineering challenges.