Skills of Recent Masters Grad to Advance Our Research Capabilities
The Shaw Institute is proud to welcome Emon Das as the newest member of our team! Fresh from successfully defending his masters thesis, he joins us as a Research Technician – a role that brings his scientific expertise and passion for sustainability to the forefront of human and environmental health research.
Born and raised near the Bay of Bengal in Chittagong, Bangladesh, Emon’s academic journey reflects a steady commitment to solving some of the world’s most urgent ecological challenges. He has just completed a Master of Science in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at the University of Kentucky, where his work focused on giving new value to municipal solid waste by transforming it into sustainable aviation fuel and bioplastics. It was work that certainly caught the eyes of our team here at the Shaw Institute.
“We’re lucky to have him. Emon’s background in sustainable materials, analytical chemistry, and method development makes him an incredible asset to our team,” said Dr. Charlie Rolsky, Executive Director of the Shaw Institute. “We’re excited about the insight and innovation he brings to our ongoing efforts to connect the dots between the health of humans, wildlife and the ecosystems we all share.”
Before his graduate studies, Emon earned a bachelor’s degree in Food Engineering from Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, where he graduated with distinction and received a university merit scholarship. His undergraduate thesis explored polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in smoked meats using GC-MS, laying the groundwork for his technical acumen in environmental analysis.
Emon’s experience includes nearly two years of hands-on research experience in polymer characterization, using advanced analytical tools such as a Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy. It’s an instrument that we use in our research here, so that experience is invaluable. At the University of Kentucky, he played a vital role in a Department of Energy–funded research initiative, helping develop reproducible methods for analyzing plastics, fibers, and biomass. He also led bio-oil fermentation studies to evaluate bioplastic production and contributed to the success of multi-institutional collaborations, delivering conference presentations and authoring research currently under peer review.
At the Shaw Institute, Emon will apply these skills to projects involving microplastic contamination in human tissue, PFAS chemicals in our environment, and a wide range of other pollutants affecting both human and ecological health. His responsibilities will include operating instrumentation like FTIR, collaborating with scientists on environmental sampling and lab analyses, and supporting the expansion of current research and monitoring programs.
“I was drawn to the Shaw Institute for the opportunity to broaden my knowledge and contribute to solving critical environmental challenges,” said Emon. “Their research on emerging pollutants as well as the health of marine ecosystems and human populations strongly resonates with me. I look forward to contributing through meaningful work, collaboration, and a shared commitment to a healthier planet.”
Outside of the lab, Emon enjoys sports – particularly cricket and soccer – and finds inspiration in the diversity of natural landscapes. His curiosity and enthusiasm for exploring new environments reflect the same energy he brings to scientific discovery.
As Emon joins the Shaw Institute, his journey from the shores of the Bay of Bengal to the coast of Blue Hill, Maine, continues – now with a mission to help protect marine ecosystems, human health, and our shared environmental future.
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