Khandoker Samaher Salem | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Khandoker Samaher Salem | Materials Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Dhaka, Bangladesh

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Khandoker Samaher Salem’s academic foundation is rooted in Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from the University of Dhaka, where she graduated with top honors. Driven by a passion for materials science and sustainability, she pursued advanced studies abroad, earning both a Master’s in Materials Science and Engineering and a Ph.D. in Forest Biomaterials from North Carolina State University. Her graduate and doctoral training provided her with a strong interdisciplinary background, blending the fundamentals of polymer science, nanomaterials, and bio-based materials engineering.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Salem currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at the University of Dhaka. Her academic career has steadily progressed through roles of increasing responsibility, reflecting her commitment to teaching, curriculum development, and institutional service. Her teaching portfolio covers a wide range of specialized subjects, including Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, and Chemical Technology, with a focus on pulp and paper, cellulosic fibers, and wood chemistry. She is actively involved in multiple university-level committees such as course development, academic discipline, and Outcome-Based Education (OBE) implementation.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Salem’s research is centered on the fabrication and characterization of bio-based and polymeric materials with sustainable applications. Her work involves the development of cellulose nanofiber (CNF) films for packaging, biopolymer nano-hybrids, and grafted polymers, utilizing techniques such as freeze drying, cryogenic processing, solution casting, and composite lamination. Her scientific contributions aim to advance the fields of renewable materials and green chemistry, aligning with global sustainability goals. She also explores performance evaluation of these materials using both classical and advanced analytical tools.

Technical Proficiencies

Her laboratory competencies span a diverse range of material fabrication and testing techniques. She is adept in using instrumentation such as Scanning and Transmission Electron Microscopy (SEM, TEM), Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), Instron mechanical testing, thermal analysis systems (DSC, TGA, DMA), FT-IR, UV-Vis, XRD, and optical profilometry. She also employs niche equipment like the Emtec TSA Softness Measurement Instrument and conducts permeability assessments (WVTR, OTR). Her computational skills extend to ImageJ, Origin Lab, ChemDraw, Adobe Creative Suite, and specialized software for materials analysis.

Teaching Experience and Academic Service

As a dedicated educator, Dr. Salem engages actively in undergraduate and postgraduate instruction, with class sizes ranging from 40 to 65 students. She has designed and delivered core and elective courses in polymer science and chemical engineering. Beyond teaching, she serves in advisory and curriculum roles, contributing to policy-making in academic and administrative spheres. Her involvement in student advising and undergraduate admissions underscores her holistic approach to academic mentorship.

Research Recognition and Honors

Dr. Salem’s scholarly excellence has been recognized through multiple competitive awards. These include first prize in a materials-focused Make-a-thon at NC State University and a prestigious enhancement fellowship for graduate students. Her research has earned national accolades, such as the National Science and ICT Fellowship, and university-level scholarships for academic distinction. These honors reflect her consistent performance as a top-tier scholar and emerging leader in materials research.

Industrial Exposure and Practical Insights

Dr. Salem complements her academic knowledge with hands-on exposure to industrial practices through various study tours across Bangladesh and the United States. These experiences have deepened her understanding of industrial chemical processes, quality control systems, utility operations, and sustainable material production, thereby enhancing her teaching and research with practical relevance.

Organizational Involvement and Outreach

She has demonstrated leadership in organizing international scientific events, such as the International Conclave on Materials, Energy and Climate, in partnership with the International Association of Advanced Materials (IAAM). Her involvement in community outreach programs in the U.S. during her studies—through initiatives like the ‘Cultural Corps’ and international festivals—highlights her commitment to intercultural exchange and science communication.

Professional Affiliations

Dr. Salem maintains active memberships in leading professional organizations including the American Chemical Society (ACS), the Society of Plastic Engineers (SPE), and the Bangladesh Chemical Society (BCS). These affiliations provide her with a global platform for networking, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Salem aims to further integrate sustainable materials into mainstream engineering applications through cutting-edge research and academic leadership. She envisions a future where biodegradable and bio-sourced materials replace conventional plastics, with her research group at the forefront of this transition. Her dedication to innovation, pedagogy, and sustainability positions her as a catalyst for scientific progress in materials engineering both locally and internationally.

📖Notable Publications

Advances in barrier coatings and film technologies for achieving sustainable packaging of food products – a review
Authors: P. Tyagi, K.S. Salem, M.A. Hubbe, L. Pal
Journal: Trends in Food Science & Technology, 115, 461–485
Citations: 340
Year: 2021

Hydrogel-based sensor networks: Compositions, properties, and applications — A review
Authors: X. Sun, S. Agate, K.S. Salem, L. Lucia, L. Pal
Journal: ACS Applied Bio Materials, 4(1), 140–162
Citations: 250
Year: 2020

Comparison and assessment of methods for cellulose crystallinity determination
Authors: K.S. Salem, N.K. Kasera, M.A. Rahman, H. Jameel, Y. Habibi, S.J. Eichhorn, …
Journal: Chemical Society Reviews, 52(18), 6417–6446
Citations: 243
Year: 2023

Polyethylene glycol functionalized carbon nanotubes/gelatin-chitosan nanocomposite: An approach for significant drug release
Authors: S. Sharmeen, A.F.M.M. Rahman, M.M. Lubna, K.S. Salem, R. Islam, M.A. Khan
Journal: Bioactive Materials, 3(3), 236–244
Citations: 109
Year: 2018

Cellulase in waste management applications
Authors: M.N. Khan, I.Z. Luna, M.M. Islam, S. Sharmeen, K.S. Salem, T.U. Rashid, …
Journal: New and Future Developments in Microbial Biotechnology and Bioengineering
Citations: 56
Year: 2016

 

Martin Anselm | Microstructure | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Martin Anselm | Microstructure | Best Researcher Award

Rochester Institute of Technology, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Martin K. Anselm’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in the field of physics, earning a BA in Physics from the State University of New York at Geneseo in 1999. He then progressed to Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY, where he completed his MS in Mechanical Engineering in 2002. This was followed by a deep dive into the realm of materials science, culminating in a Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering from Binghamton University in 2011. His academic background is rich in technical knowledge, specifically focused on materials science and mechanical engineering.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Dr. Anselm currently serves as an Associate Professor in Manufacturing, Mechanical & Electromechanical Engineering Technology at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). With a commitment to advancing both academic knowledge and industry collaboration, he plays a vital role in the CEMA Lab at RIT, which heavily relies on industry-backed research projects and cutting-edge industrial manufacturing equipment. His engagement with Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA) stands out, as he served as SMTA President (2020 - present) and has contributed as SMTA Board Member from 2013 to 2019, alongside holding leadership roles within the Empire Chapter of SMTA. His influence within the electronics manufacturing sector has helped steer numerous initiatives that bridge academia and industry.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Anselm's research is deeply rooted in electronics solder joint fracture mechanics and microstructural evolution in fatigue, which is crucial for the long-term reliability and performance of electronic components. His other areas of expertise include semiconductor device packaging, electronics assembly manufacturing, and electronics reliability modeling and test development. His work in these domains supports industries that require reliable electronic components for use in everything from consumer electronics to critical infrastructure. His research contributions also extend to the practical aspects of electronics manufacturing, where he is dedicated to improving the quality and durability of solder joints and devices.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Anselm’s research is influential in both academic and industry circles. His involvement in the SMTAI conference has enabled him to share his expertise and contribute to the dissemination of cutting-edge research in electronics manufacturing. By actively engaging with industry partners, he has helped shape research projects that align with real-world manufacturing challenges. This collaboration has not only resulted in technological advancements but has also provided RIT students and faculty with access to advanced industrial manufacturing equipment, fostering hands-on learning opportunities.

Academic Citations 📚

As a thought leader in his field, Dr. Anselm’s work has been widely cited in academic circles, particularly within the realm of electronics manufacturing and materials science. His research contributions are frequently referenced by professionals seeking insights into the fracture mechanics of solder joints and electronics reliability, highlighting the significant impact his work has on both academia and the broader electronics industry.

Technical Skills 🔧

Dr. Anselm possesses extensive technical skills in areas including electronics assembly manufacturing, reliability testing, and materials characterization. His expertise in solder joint fracture mechanics is complemented by proficiency in microstructural analysis, which is essential for understanding how fatigue impacts the longevity of electronic components. Additionally, his experience with semiconductor packaging and electronics reliability modeling allows him to offer solutions to complex problems encountered in the design and manufacturing of electronic devices.

Teaching Experience 📖

Dr. Anselm’s teaching career is marked by his involvement in courses such as Science of Engineering Materials (ME272) and Processes for Electronics Manufacturing (SSIE 578) at Binghamton University. His instructional approach focuses on integrating academic theory with practical application, ensuring that students are well-prepared for careers in electronics manufacturing and related fields. As an educator, he has not only imparted technical knowledge but also mentored students in research, helping to nurture the next generation of engineers.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

Looking ahead, Dr. Anselm is poised to continue making significant contributions to the field of electronics manufacturing, particularly in improving the reliability of solder joints and advancing semiconductor device packaging. His research is expected to influence the development of more resilient and efficient electronic components that will be critical as industries move towards more compact, high-performance devices. As a mentor and leader, his legacy will be carried forward through his students and the ongoing collaboration between RIT and industry partners.

📖Notable Publications