Postdoctoral Research Fellows
Dr. Brian C. Samuels is a postdoctoral scholar at the Ingram School of Engineering at Texas State University. He earned his Ph.D. in 2024 in the Materials Science, Engineering, and Commercialization program at Texas State University. He had previously obtained his M.S. in Engineering, and B.S. in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University. His research has focused on the growth and characterization of ultra-wide bandgap thin film alloys deposited using pulsed laser deposition. Brian has extensive experience in characterization techniques and their analysis.
Ph.D. Students
Pallab Kumar Sarkar is a Ph.D. student in the Materials Science, Engineering & Commercialization (MSEC) program at Texas State University (TXST), joining in the summer of 2023. At TXST, he serves as a doctoral instructional/research assistant, specializing in Wide Bandgap (WBG) & Ultra-Wide Bandgap (UWBG) materials for future power electronics. Pallab holds a bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET), Bangladesh, earned in 2018. He pursued his MS degree in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University (TXST), graduating in 2023. During his studies, Pallab focused on the direct integration of diamonds on Ga2O3 using Q-carbon interfacial layer at the Advanced Micro/Nano Materials & Devices Lab at Texas State University. His expertise encompasses growth and characterization of thin films, wide bandgap materials, laser-solid interaction, thin-film defects, diamond, and physical and chemical vapor deposition fabrications. Pallab has authored or co-authored approximately 10 peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals and conferences.
Ayesha Tasnim is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Engineering, and Commercialization at Texas State University, having commenced her studies in the Summer of 2023. Ayesha earned both her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Physics from the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, where she achieved the highest grades and ranked first in her class for both her undergraduate and graduate studies. Her research objective is to investigate the properties of new class of wide bandgap semiconductors through various material, electrical, and optical characterizations. By examining the viability of these materials at the device level, she seeks to identify promising candidates for fabrication. Outside of academia, Ayesha enjoys painting, reading storybooks, and playing games in her leisure time.
Ron Saha, currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Texas State University since Fall 2023, specializes in the study of wide bandgap semiconductors. His research centers on the stress-induced growth of HFCVD diamond and other ultrawide bandgap semiconductors, employing innovative fabrication techniques involving diverse carbon seeds. Holding both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the University of Dhaka, Ron is driven by a passion to make significant contributions to semiconductor research and harbors aspirations for an academic career. Outside of academia, he enjoys traveling and discovering new destinations.
Saif Al Arafin Taqy is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Texas State University (TXST), specializing in Materials Science, Engineering, and Commercialization since the Fall of 2023. As a member of the Micro/nano Devices Laboratory, he contributes to ongoing research endeavors focused on the exploration of thin films comprising emerging wide bandgap materials growth and characterization. Leveraging the PLD, PLA, HFCVD, and MPCVD techniques, his work aims to develop materials suitable for applications in high-power electronics. Having obtained a Master’s in Electrical Engineering at TXST and a Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science from the esteemed Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). Saif brings a robust academic background to his research pursuits. His primary objective is to meticulously investigate the properties of thin films of novel wide bandgap semiconductors through comprehensive material, electrical, and optical characterizations. Through his research, he aims to discern promising avenues for the fabrication of devices at a practical level. Beyond his academic endeavors, Saif enjoys leisurely pursuits such as music, reading, driving, swimming, and video games.
Maria Sultana is currently pursuing Ph.D. in MSEC at TXST. She completed her M.S. in electrical engineering at Texas State University (TXST), commencing her studies in Fall 2022. Her research focuses on investigating the growth and electronic transport characteristics of ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) oxide and nitride heterojunctions. Maria’s primary area of concentration involves the utilization of UWBG materials such as Ga2O3 and AlN, as well as wide bandgap GaN, in high-power electronics and HEMTs. Maria obtained her Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET), Bangladesh, in 2021. During her undergraduate studies, her research centered on the classification of EEG signals for brain-computer interface applications using deep neural networks. Beyond academia, Maria enjoys exploring the tranquility of nature.
MS Students
Mahfuz Ahmed Azmain is pursuing a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University (TXST), commencing his studies in Fall 2023 at the Ingram Hall of Engineering. His thesis is to make a sensor using boron-doped ultra-nanocrystalline diamond (UNCD). His research interests revolve around exploring growth and fabrication techniques for ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductors, particularly investigating the role of diamonds in power electronics and optoelectronics. He also has hands-on experience working with AlGaN/GaN High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs). He has been serving as a Graduate Assistant of the Core Research Operations (CRO) team since June 2024. Mahfuz was honored with the Graduate Merit Fellowship (2023-2024) for his outstanding academic achievements. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronic, and Communication Engineering from the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST), Bangladesh, graduating with distinction. Mahfuz Ahmed Azmain is deeply passionate about conducting research in UWBG semiconductors and aspires to pursue a Ph.D. in semiconductor-related fields in the future.
Adedayo Alaga, with a background deeply rooted in Electrical & Electronics Engineering, is currently pursuing an M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University (TXST), since January 2024. Prior to this, he attained an M.Sc. in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from the University of Lagos, Nigeria, in 2017, following his Bachelor’s degree in the same field from the University of Lagos in 2010. Adedayo’s research interests span a broad spectrum, encompassing Ultra-Wide Bandgap Semiconductor, Thin Film Technology, and UV-Photodetectors. Beyond academia, he derives enjoyment from playing table tennis and swimming, activities that offer him balance and relaxation in his life.
Fardeen Md Toushique is pursuing a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University (TXST), beginning his studies in Fall 2024 at the Ingram Hall of Engineering. His current research focuses on co-doping diamond to enhance its electrical properties for semiconductor applications. His interests lie in the development and characterization of ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) materials, particularly diamond, for high-power and high-frequency electronics. He was awarded a 50% Graduate Merit Fellowship in recognition of his academic merit. Fardeen earned his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from the Islamic University of Technology (IUT), Bangladesh. With a strong passion for semiconductor materials and devices, he aspires to build a career in the semiconductor industry.
Tajwar Al Mamun started doing his Master’s in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University in Fall 2024. His research focuses on the characterization and fabrication of ultra-wide band gap(UWBG) semiconductor materials for developing high power electronic devices, optoelectronics and photonics. Tajwar was honored with the Texas State Graduate Merit Fellowship (2024-2025) in recognition of his impressive academic achievements and potential for success as a graduate student. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET). When Tajwar is not in the lab, he can often be found working out at the gym or exploring new places.
Priyan Shah began his Master’s in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University in Fall 2024. His research centers on thin-film deposition and material characterization for semiconductor applications, where he actively works with HFCVD, PLD, and other cleanroom tools. In recognition of his academic excellence and research potential, Priyan was awarded the Texas State Graduate Merit Fellowship for the 2024–2025 academic year. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Instrumentation and Control Engineering from L.D. College of Engineering in India. Before starting grad school, Priyan held engineering roles at L&T Technology Services and Meinhardt EPCM India, contributing to major semiconductor and chemical sector projects. Outside the lab, he enjoys exploring outdoors, hiking and staying active.
Undergraduate Students
Pujan Lamsal is currently pursuing his undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University, with a focus on micro/nano device fabrication and materials optimization. Since October 2024, he has been an active member of Dr. Haque’s research group, where he has gained experience in deposition and characterization techniques relevant to thin films and semiconductor processing. In May 2025, Pujan also joined the Shared Research Operations team at TXST, working within the NRSC cleanroom. There, he is involved in hands-on device fabrication workflows and is developing operational expertise in advanced research instrumentation and cleanroom management. His interests lie in understanding how physical processes at the micro and nanoscale influence device performance and reliability. He is driven by a mindset of continuous learning, and a belief in learning through experimentation, failure, and iteration. Outside the lab, he enjoys hiking, traveling to new places, listening to a wide range of musical genres, and having meaningful conversations that spark new perspectives.
Jonah Hartley is currently pursuing his BS in Electrical Engineering, concentrated in micro and nano devices at Texas State University (TXST) and is on track to graduate Fall 2025, after which he plans to pursue a PhD. His research is on the growth optimization characterization of ultra-wide bandgap semiconductors. Focused on the electrical and optical properties of AlN, and its potential use in high-power electronics. Outside the lab, he also works for TXST Outdoor Recreation, instructs various labs at TXST, and coaches the TXST Rock Climbing Team.
Alumni
Dr. Subrata Karmakar worked as a postdoctoral research fellow in the Ultrawide Bandgap research group at Texas State University (TXST) from April 2022-August 2024. During his tenure at TXST he investigated various facets of thin films incorporating emerging UWBG materials such as β-Ga2O3, spinel Gallates (AGa2O4), GeO2, AlN, and GaN, alongside diverse carbon-based materials like diamond-like carbon, Q-carbon, and diamond. Leveraging techniques including PLD, PLA, HFCVD, and MPCVD, his research aims to develop materials suitable for high-power electronics, energy storage devices, and other technological applications. Dr. Karmakar holds a master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Physics from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bhubaneswar, and a Ph.D. in Materials Physics in 2022 from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela, India. He has authored or co-authored more than 40 journal articles in esteemed, high-impact, peer-reviewed publications.
Dr N. Manikantha Babu worked as a post-doctoral research fellow in the UWBG semiconductor lab from September 2023 to August 2024. He worked on developing novel Ultrawide Bandgap oxides for their use in electronic and optoelectronic devices during his stay at TXST.
Dr. Dalim Mia, currently working as a Device Engineer at Samsung Semiconductor in Austin, investigated gallium oxide-based UWBG oxide semiconductor fabrication and characterization during his appointment as a postdoctoral research associate in 2021 at Texas State University (TXST). Dr. Mia obtained his Ph.D. from the Materials Science, Engineering & Commercialization (MSEC) program at TXST in 2020. He earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) and Master of Science (MS) degrees from the University of Dhaka in Physics in 2013 and 2015, respectively. Before joining Samsung Semiconductor, Dr. Mia contributed his expertise as a TD Module & Integration Yield Engineer (Dry Etch) at Intel Corporation in Hillsboro, Oregon, for approximately one year in 2022. His diverse experience in both industry and academia underscores his dedication to advancing semiconductor technology and innovation. He enjoys revisiting his former laboratories and reconnecting with colleagues at Texas State University.
Md Abdul Hamid was a master’s student in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University (TXST), starting his studies in Fall 2022. His research centered on investigating materials growth and device fabrication techniques for ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductors, particularly magnesium gallate (MgGa2O4), for use in high-power electronic devices.
Imteaz Rahaman completed his master’s in Electrical Engineering at TXST in 2023. His research focused on the optimization of the seeding technique for diamond deposition on gallium oxide. Imteaz is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Utah.
Istiaq Firoz Shiam completed his Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University (TXST), commencing his studies in 2022. His research focused on exploring various growth and fabrication techniques for wide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductors, including GaN, AlGaN, and AlN, with applications in high-power electronics. His thesis revolves around innovative approaches to enhancing the structural and electrical properties of AlGaN/GaN HEMTs.
Injamamul Hoque Emu completed Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering at Texas State University, starting from the fall of 2022. His research primarily focused on investigating the growth and fabrication of ultrawide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductors, such as Ga2O3 and Gallate (including CuGa2O4, MgGa2O4, ZnGa2O4), for applications in high-power electronics, optoelectronics, and photonics.
Anna Collingwood graduated from Texas State University with a degree in Electrical Engineering in May 2025. Originally from Texas, she also attended school abroad in Saudi Arabia and graduated from a boarding school in Switzerland in 2020. Anna is now a Graduate Electrical Engineer at Dashiell Corporation in Austin, a company specializing in power systems and infrastructure. During her time at Texas State, Anna was actively involved in several student organizations and contributed to research under the guidance of Dr. Haque. Her research focused on modifying the properties of gallium oxide by incorporating indium.
Bibek Pokharel is an undergraduate student at Texas State University, where he began his studies in Fall 2025. He is majoring in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Micro and Nano Devices and Systems. He was awarded the President’s Honor Scholarship to support his studies. He has a strong interest in semiconductors and power electronics, which guide his academic and research pursuits. In January 2025, he joined the Ultrawide Bandgap Semiconductor (UWBG) Lab at Texas State University to advance his research in next-generation semiconductor technologies.
Joel Osho is an undergraduate Electrical Engineering student at Texas State University, graduating in Fall 2025. His academic and research interests center on wide bandgap (WBG) and ultra-wide bandgap (UWBG) semiconductors for next-generation power electronics and thermal management. In 2024, he conducted research analyzing the thermal conductivity and device potential of diamond-based materials in UWBG systems, culminating in a national conference presentation. He is an active member of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), IEEE, and the H-LSAMP program, and is passionate about research that pushes the boundaries of semiconductor technology and energy infrastructure.
Min Seok Ahn was a research intern at MSEC, TXST, from January 2023 – June 2023. He is completing his B.Sc. in Materials Science and Engineering at Yonsei University of Engineering & Technology (March 2018—present). Min’s research interests include wide bandgap semiconductors, Nanoparticle synthesis, and biomimetics. He also loves playing basketball, soccer, and travelling.
Richard M. Medina
Ana M. Jaimes-Leal
Co-advisee Alumni
Jibesh K. Saha is presently employed at INTEL in Oregon, USA. He conducted research on the fabrication and characterization of gallium oxide-based UWBG oxide semiconductors during his time at Texas State University. In 2022, Jibesh graduated from TXST’s Electrical Engineering program with a master’s.
Puja R. Saha is currently employed at INTEL in Oregon, USA. She conducted research on the fabrication and characterization of gallium oxide-based UWBG oxide semiconductors during her time at Texas State University. In 2022, Puja graduated from TXST’s Electrical Engineering program with a master’s.