Materials science student explores soft materials and industry application

Md Sazzadul Alam Rahat named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month

Doctoral student Md Sazzadul Alam Rahat was drawn to materials science and engineering by its interdisciplinary nature. As part of Associate Professor Jonathan Pham's Soft Materials and Interface Group, he has led several projects surrounding microparticles and thin liquid films, is first author on multiple peer-reviewed publications, and was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the University of Cincinnati's College of Engineering and Applied Science.

Why did you choose UC?

The University of Cincinnati is where research, mentorship, and community aligned for me in a way that directly supports my own long-term goals in soft materials, adhesion, and surface science. The College of Engineering and Applied Science offers strong support for graduate researchers, including competitive scholarships, travel awards, and a collaborative environment across chemical, materials, and mechanical engineering.

Why did you choose your field of study?

Materials science and engineering sits at the intersection of mechanics, chemistry, and physics, which are all fields I'm interested in. Soft materials and interfaces fascinate me because tiny changes in surface chemistry or film thickness can completely transform how systems stick, slide, or fail, which is both intellectually challenging and technologically powerful. Working with soft materials, interfaces, and adhesion lets me understand a branch of knowledge and connect fundamental science to practical applications.

Briefly describe your research work. What problems do you hope to solve?

Md Sazzadul Alam Rahat stands, posing for a photo

Md Sazzadul Alam Rahat is studying the behaviors of soft materials and interfaces. Photo/provided

My research focuses on how tiny particles stick to and detach from ultra-thin liquid films and liquid-liquid interfaces, using tools like atomic force microscopy to measure those capillary forces at the microscale. It inspires me because a small change in film thickness or surface chemistry can dramatically change whether a particle stays, slides, or releases, and that sensitivity can be engineered into technologies. One project I worked on drew inspiration from the way nose hairs trap dust and pollen to design bioinspired air filters that use a thin silicone oil layer to enhance particle capture through capillary adhesion. These filters last twice as long as conventional ones and perform effectively under varying airflow directions; demonstrating how understanding interfacial phenomena can lead to smarter, more durable filtration systems. Ultimately, I hope my work will help develop methods to provide cleaner air and water, more reliable particle removal in semiconductor processes, and safer, longer-lasting soft interfaces in biomedical and soft robotic systems.

What are some of the most impactful experiences during your time at UC?

Presenting my research at national conferences has been especially impactful by giving me exposure to the scientific community and expanding my professional network. Equally meaningful has been serving in leadership roles with the Bangladesh Student Community and the American Chemical Society POLY/PMSE Chapter, building community and leadership. In the summer of 2025, I interned at building products company Owens Corning. My time there really helped me connect my research experience to how it can be applied to industry challenges.

When do you expect to graduate? What are your plans after earning your degree?

I expect to graduate with my PhD in Materials Science and Engineering in August 2026. Afterward, I plan to pursue R&D roles in industry, focusing on soft materials, adhesion, and surface interactions for applications in advanced coatings, filtration, semiconductors, and biomedical devices.

Do you have any other hobbies or involvements you'd like to share?

Outside academics, I enjoy volunteering to demonstrate scientific concepts to K-12 students through hands-on STEM outreach. I'm passionate about astronomy, camping, and astrophotography, which provide a different perspective on life.

Featured image at top: Md Sazzadul Alam Rahat is pursuing a doctoral degree in materials science and engineering. Photo/UC