Zia Ur Rahman

Results-driven Materials Engineer with extensive hands-on experience in advanced materials characterization, electron microscopy, failure analysis, and high-precision clean-room (ISO-5 and ISO-8) manufacturing environments. Proven expertise operating and supporting analytical instrumentation, including Focused Ion Beam (FIB), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), EDX/EDS, and related sample preparation techniques for structural and compositional analysis. Strong background in defect investigation, root cause analysis, process optimization, and translating complex technical data into actionable engineering solutions.

Experienced in managing priorities in fast-paced manufacturing settings, maintaining strict documentation standards, training personnel, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Recognized for strong analytical judgment, technical adaptability, and the ability to quickly learn new technologies in semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, and regulated production environments.

Sr. Manufacturing Specialist (Materials Science) - Johnson & Johnson

(2021-08 - 2025-01)

• Generated high-quality experimental data by designing and executing lab studies spanning materials synthesis, processing, and advanced characterization, incorporating data science/AI methods to accelerate materials and technology development.
• Communicated findings and technical recommendations through patent-ready documentation, detailed technical reports, seminars, and concise updates to cross-functional and leadership teams.
• Supervised and mentored laboratory technicians, providing hands-on training, safety oversight, and daily task planning/prioritization to ensure reliable execution and on-time project delivery.
• Accurately entered and reviewed critical process parameters in electronic batch records (EBR), ensuring strict adherence to cGMP documentation standards and data integrity requirements.
• Participated in continuous improvement initiatives, increasing operational efficiency and reliability.

Material Lab Engineer - Thermo Fisher Scientific

(2020-04 - 2021-07)

• Assisted in analytical testing and method qualification/validation activities, contributing to data accuracy, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance by utilizing LIMS and MES.
• Maintained laboratory equipment logbooks, performed routine checks, and ensured calibration and maintenance activities were documented per SOP requirements.
• Supported lab inventory management, including ordering, receipt, and qualification of reagents and consumables to ensure uninterrupted QC operations.
• Participated in laboratory investigations (deviations, OOS/OOT) by gathering data, performing root cause analysis, and supporting CAPA implementation.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams (Manufacturing, QA) to support batch release activities and ensure timely product disposition.
• Ensured strict adherence to safety policies, quality systems, and regulatory compliance standards in all laboratory activities.

Research Scientist - Central Michigan University

(2015-05 - 2019-12)

Led materials development and preclinical evaluation of nanoparticles, PVD-Coatings by magnetron sputter, and structural materials engineered for biomedical applications.

• Conducted biocompatibility evaluation of magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), TiO₂ nanoparticles, and PVD coatings (magnetron sputtering) per ISO 10993 standards.
• Performed FIB-based cross-sectional analysis of PVD coatings to assess microstructure, crystallinity, and amorphous phases, supported by TEM/EDX/EELS for characterization.
• Assessed in-vitro cytocompatibility and material–cell interactions using relevant endothelial and osteoblast cell models to evaluate tissue response under aseptic conditions.
• Conducted degradation, corrosion, and extractables studies per ISO 10993-1/-5/-12, quantifying ion release and chemical stability via ICP-MS.
• Integrated mechanical, chemical, and biological data to evaluate material performance, durability, and biocompatibility for down-selection and design optimization.
• Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to support materials design controls, specifications, and process development for advanced biomedical coatings and nanomaterials.

Materials Lab Safety Person - The University of Texas at RGV (Materials Testing Lab)

(2013-09 - 2015-08)

• Led implementation and enforcement of laboratory safety programs (chemical, biological, and physical hazards) in compliance with institutional EHS standards.
• Developed and maintained SOPs, risk assessments, and Job Safety Analyses (JSA) for materials characterization, corrosion testing, and surface engineering laboratories.
• Trained researchers and technicians on safe handling of acids, solvents, compressed gases, nanomaterials, and high-temperature / high-voltage equipment.
• Managed procurement, installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of lab equipment.
• Coordinated with vendors, office staff, and safety personnel to facilitate laboratory operations and equipment lifecycle management.

MS - Mechanical & Materials Engineering - University of Texas at UTRGV (2014-05)