DSU graduate student wins 1st place for research conf. presentation

Razia Khan Sharme, a DSU graduate student in Applied Optics, recently won first place in the Physics Category at the 2025 Emerging Researchers National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

Ms. Sharme took first place by presenting her ongoing research entitled “Advancing Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) Thin Films and Protective Coatings for Next-Generation Applications,” which she is conducting in collaboration with NASA. The research work aims to develop improved materials for reflective optics used in NASA’s LiDAR systems, which are critical for future space missions. Specifically, we are working on enhancing ITO thin films and protective coatings to meet the demanding requirements of space environments.

A native of Bangladesh, Ms. Sharme completed a bachelor’s degree in Materials Science and Engineering from Khulna University of Engineering and Technology in 2023. She began her graduate studies in Applied Optics at Delaware State University last summer and has been involved in this NASA-related research since then. She is currently working under the research team of Dr. Mukti Rana, Professor of Physics and Engineering, under which she has been involved with NASA-related research.

The conference was hosted by the American Association for the Advancement of Science in collaboration with the Inclusive STEM Ecosystems for Equity & Diversity Program and the National Science Foundation Division of Equity for Excellence in STEM.

The ERN Conference brings together undergraduate and graduate students who are participating in NSF-funded programs to present their research and connect with peers and professionals in their fields.

Ms. Sharme received a first-place prize of $300.