The philosophy of the atomically dependent nature of the ever-expanding universe instilled in me a

curiosity to ponder over the simple genesis of the seemingly complex. My passion found its answers in
the science of chemistry thus motivating me to pursue a career path in this discipline. My particular
interest lies in the synthesis of novel materials with broad application targets in environment, medicine
and energy. It has therefore been the motivation behind the research work I have pursued so far over the
course of my research experience spanning over three years. I strongly believe that a Ph.D. in chemistry
will pave the path for me to diversity my knowledge and skills while exploring my potentialities and
interests to a greater depth.
I have developed a critical scientific thinking approach through a rewarding academic and research
journey. I gained a transformational master’s research experience under the supervision of Dr.
Muhammad Faryad (Ph.D. Penn State University) at Lahore University of Management Sciences
(LUMS). The aim of this project was focussed on the chemical fabrication of zero-index material (ZIM)
by gold, alumina and titania xerogels. ZIM present a futuristic front for vast electromagnetic radiation
absorption capabilities with desired applications in sound filtering, nondestructive material testing,
increasing the radiation power of antennas and solar photovoltaics. During this project, I worked in
collaboration with a team of physicists to increase the transmittance of light at any angle by reducing the
reflection losses in solar cells. The challenge at our disposal was to fabricate morphologically distinct
nanoclusters and nanoparticles of gold via different chemical stabilizing agents followed by Brust-
Schiffrin method to create the zero index material. I was tasked with the intricate chemical reduction
techniques that are employed for ZIM development. It was challenging to work on a novel material that
lacked an extensive literature background due to its embryonic stage. However, it was interesting to
scientifically approach and explore the variables that could be targeted to achieve desired results.
Although simulations remain promising and wet lab trials were in accordance with theoretical
background but presented certain issues like excessive ordering, inconsistent distribution of
nanoparticles in xero gel, and contamination problems. I gained hand-on experience of characterizing
and analyzing our fabricated materials using FT-IR, SEM, PXRD, and EDX analysis. The chemical
tuning of fabrication conditions developed my capacity to decipher the role of surface functionalization,
selectivity, and morphological properties of nanoparticles.
My undergraduate research experience established my wet-lab chemistry expertise. The objective of my
senior year project under the supervision of Dr. Mujahid Bokhari was to investigate the optimization of
reaction parameters for the photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes in water by using eco-friendly
nanoparticles synthesized using green chemistry. The main dyes examined for photodegradation in my
study were methylene blue and methylene orange while the photocatalytic nanoparticles were prepared
by the use of methanol extracts of Calotropis Procera, an indigenous shrub of Africa and Asia. The
reaction parameters i.e., temperature, pH, reaction time and the concentration of copper salt were
optimized to produce uniform copper oxide nanoparticles expected to have interesting photocatalytic
and antibacterial properties. While working on this project, I had a chance to hone wet lab chemistry
techniques including but not limited to titration, solvothermal synthesis and acid-base chemistry along
with experience in characterization and analytical tools such as UV-Vis spectroscopy. I was able to
publish my research work in a university issued journal and received appreciation when it was presented
during two inter-university poster competitions. This experience revealed to me the significance of
incorporating slight variations in the experimental approach that led to extraordinary results.  
Over the years, I have developed an extraordinary ability to manage demanding learning curves. I take
advantage out of challenges to develop new skills and practice the already acquired. Currently, I am
working as a Research Assistant with Dr. Basit Yameen (Ph.D. Max Plank Institute) on a new project.
The target of this project is to synthesize polymer-drug conjugate nanoparticles for applications in
_____. My aim is to _____. I am confident that with my previously acquired skill set and the guidance
of Dr. Basit I will be able to achieve striking results.
My learning outside the traditional academic classroom has shaped my leadership and communication
skills. I have gained diverse interpersonal abilities through my participation in university societies and
volunteer work. In my most noticeable role as the Director of human resource management for LUMS
Society of Chemical Sciences and Engineering, I found the opportunity to exercise my abilities. I was
responsible for recruiting 30 members to the society’s executive committee. It was challenging to
discern between individuals based on their skills and knowledge and to put them in the right department.
I was successful in diplomatically mobilizing the individuals to choose the specific department and play
their part to the best. As I find myself particularly concerned by the rapidly worsening environmental
conditions in Pakistan and the world around, I joined LUMS Environmental Action Forum (LEAF). As
the Director of events I paid special attention to organizing events that brought in people from all walks
of life and all socioeconomic backgrounds. The main goal of these events was to educate people on the
extent of human society’s present dilemma and create an impact. I believe that in part we played a big
role in pushing the governmental authorities to ban plastic bags in Pakistan and I believe in a day
humans will be able to overcome the current dilemma.
I have gained extensive and multiple teaching experiences over the course of five years as a teaching
assistant and tutor. These experiences have laid the foundation of my profound understanding of science
communication. It has also allowed me to identify the varying learning capacities of students to
holistically understand different concepts. Therefore, I believe every individual comes with a different
learning ability and it has made me more receptive of varying opinions and pedagogical approaches to
be considered.
The transformation of my passion for chemistry has ultimately reached the stage where I envision
myself as an upcoming pioneer instead of a mere spectator. My future interest lies in extending my
passion to work on novel nanomaterials that make use of interdisciplinary science and find diverse
applications in the fields of medicine, energy, environment, future fuels, etc. ___ I am also inclined
towards learning computational and theoretical chemistry as the opportunity for this science is especially
underexplored in my home country.
I am interested to pursue my doctoral degree at the University of _____________ as it offers diverse
learning opportunities in the area of materials and nanoscience. As my previous experience and future
interest aligns closely with the exceptional work being done by Dr. ______’s lab, I would like to work
under his/her supervision. I am particularly intrigued by the ____* project*__. Moreover, I am also
interested to explore further the work of Dr. ________. His/her group’s work on _______*project*___
has future implications. Therefore, exploring it as part of doctoral research would be an ideal
platform/opportunity for me to make an effective impact that contributes to society.
The diverse and lively culture of University of _______ will allow me to grow professionally and
personally. I believe that with my previous experiences I can add value to the growing research
community at the University of _________. The scientifically stimulating research culture at the
University of ______ will expand my intellectual capabilities to become an independent future
researcher. Moreover, I am certain that alongside like-minded aspiring individuals from around the
world I will be able to add to the nurturing environment for collective advancement. My long-term goal
after Ph.D. will be to acquire a post-doctoral position that will further my capacity as an independent
researcher to design new projects and lead them. I am confident that by achieving my goals I will be
able to serve the scientific community in my aspired role as an educationist by contributing through
research integrated with academia.