At Biggani.org, we interview Bangladeshi scientists from home and abroad. Today in our series, we spoke with Md. Nazibul Islam.

Scientist’s Introduction:

Md. Nazibul Islam is a chemical engineer. He completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees at BUET (Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology). Currently, he is at Texas A&M University in Texas, USA. His current research topics include Microfluidics, Electrokinetics, Low-cost fabrication, Fluid-flow modeling, and Global health.

Which Subject Should I Study?

One of the biggest questions faced by students in Bangladesh is which subject to choose in university. Especially after passing higher secondary school, adolescents must confront this question. I discussed this topic with Nazibul. He said, before deciding on a subject, one should observe the lives and work of people employed in that field. Can I see myself doing that kind of work? Is that lifestyle my goal? We need to consider these things. Secondly, it’s very important to know yourself, because only we ourselves truly understand our own capabilities. Thirdly, in the context of Bangladesh, we need to keep in mind what our family wants, since family plays a significant role in our social structure. Additionally, another thing that often troubles our adolescents is employability or the chances of finding a job. On this matter, Nazibul’s perspective is that if you work hard in any field, you can find a job in that very field, so there’s not much need to overly worry about this.

Good Institution and Mental Support

While doing research during a PhD, good support from the lab, professor, and institution is necessary. In this context, he shared an experience about his wife: during her PhD, her professor passed away midway. In that difficult time, the institution and other professors provided significant mental support, which was very helpful.

Stories from America

During our conversation, he shared an interesting observation about America. Even though the light of civilization has reached everywhere in America, the light of money has not (meaning not all areas are economically well-off). This comment gives us a view of America that many of us may not be familiar with.

Accessible and Low-Cost Biosensors

Currently, Nazibul is researching how natural materials can be used for human welfare. Using microfluidic methods, he is developing biosensors made of paper that are accessible and low-cost. This technology became widely used for antigen testing during the COVID pandemic.

How to Become a Scientist?

Bangladesh’s education system is focused on results. That is, the answer to a question is already known, but you have to find the answer in different ways. In such cases, the result is already known. On the other hand, the questions that scientists try to answer are generally unknown. He described this as “Open Ended.” Our problem is that we often fail to recognize this difference. Therefore, a change in mindset is necessary. As a scientist, I must remember that I may not find an answer to the topic I’m researching. Sometimes, even if the result is negative, that itself is a discovery. In this context, he quoted a scientist from the past: suppose we are searching for something in an empty room. After searching, we find nothing. The fact that we found nothing—that itself is a discovery. We discovered that it wasn’t there. Many scientists search for unknowns in many places—sometimes they find answers, sometimes they don’t. Not finding something is also a discovery.

Nazibul said, the journey of research is more important than the results.

What are the Responsibilities of Scientists?

Nazibul said that, first and foremost, a scientist gathers new knowledge. The second duty is to disseminate that knowledge. The third is to determine how that knowledge can benefit society.

In conclusion, he encouraged everyone to enjoy life. We were born on this planet. The Creator has given us so much, and it is very important to recognize and enjoy all of it.

Watch the full interview:

Interview conducted by Dr. Moshior Rahman

Date: November 15, 2022, Singapore