PhD Candidate Wins Association for Women in Science Scholarship

Laiba Bilal, a PhD candidate in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Stony Brook University, has been awarded a 2022 Association for Women in Science (AWIS) Career Re-entry Scholarship. 

Bilal will complete her doctoral research phase as a research assistant at Brookhaven National Laboratory, working on nanoparticle synthesis, analyzing various materials, and focusing on silicate nanocages to be tailored for isotope production and nuclear application. This includes experimenting with trapping noble gasses for use in nuclear physics and clean energy. 

“Laiba has a clear passion for science and the determination needed to pull through her new career path,” said her advisor, Anibal Boscoboinik, materials scientist, Brookhaven National Laboratory. “Since she joined our lab a few months ago, she has developed the necessary skills to be a very productive member of the group, taking leadership and owning her project. She has a clear ability to focus and manage her time very efficiently. I am learning from her probably as much as she is learning from us. She has a bright future ahead of her.”

Bilal was born and raised in Pakistan. Prior to moving to the U.S. in 2017, she earned her bachelor’s in computer systems from the Usman Institute of Technology in Pakistan and a master’s in electronic engineering from Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan. She concentrated on renewable energy, specifically utilization of photovoltaic technology and the conversion of solar energy into electrical energy. With this scholarship she plans to purchase a fast and reliable laptop to pursue her career as a true scientist.

“It’s wonderful to see so many women committed to pursuing their careers in science and STEM. This year’s recipients have conveyed passion through their stories, and AWIS is delighted to support the next steps in their career,” stated Meredith Gibson, interim CEO of AWIS.

Founded in 1971, AWIS has been the leading advocate for women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) to achieve business growth, social change and innovation. AWIS is dedicated to driving excellence in STEM by achieving equity and full participation of women in all disciplines and across all employment sectors. In addition to scholarships, AWIS provides career resources, professional development, as well as networking, mentoring and volunteer opportunities to build leadership skills. To learn more, visit awis.org.