Author: Doubt Hamweemba

Fathima Hameed Cherilakkudy, PhD in Chemistry, 2026

I joined the Computational and Theoretical Chemistry research group at Michigan Technological University in Spring 2022. Since then, my research has focused on understanding the catalytic mechanisms of biologically important metalloenzymes using computational chemistry and molecular modeling. Through molecular dynamics simulations and hybrid quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations, I investigate how enzymes control chemical reactivity in processes related to epigenetic modification, DNA repair, and natural product biosynthesis. This work has allowed me to develop expertise in computational enzymology while strengthening my passion for research and scientific discovery.
During my Ph.D., I have worked on several projects involving Fe(II)/2-oxoglutarate-dependent enzymes, including studies of the human epigenetic modifying enzyme ALKBH5, the natural product biosynthetic enzyme CTB9, and the DNA repair enzymes AlkB and ALKBH2. My dissertation research aims to uncover how enzyme structure, dynamics, and the surrounding protein environment influence catalytic selectivity and reaction mechanisms. By combining molecular dynamics simulations with QM/MM calculations, my work seeks to provide molecular-level insights into enzyme catalysis that may contribute to a broader understanding of biological function and the design of improved biocatalytic strategies.
I am sincerely grateful to the Graduate Dean Awards Advisory Panel for selecting me for the Finishing Fellowship. I would also like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my advisor, Dr. Tatyana G. Karabencheva-Christova, for her continuous guidance, encouragement, and support throughout my Ph.D. journey. I am excited to complete my dissertation and continue pursuing my passion for computational chemistry, research, teaching, and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

Adnan Hilal, PhD in Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics, 2026

Growing up, I was always interested in solving practical engineering problems that could improve people’s everyday lives. That interest led me to pursue a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Michigan Technological University, where I study residential building electrification and energy efficiency in cold-climate communities. My research combines building energy modeling, machine learning, and local community data to identify practical and cost-effective pathways for transitioning homes from fossil-fuel heating to cold-climate heat pumps.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my research has been collaborating with community members, industry partners, and interdisciplinary researchers to develop solutions that can be applied in practice. Through my work, I hope to support more resilient, affordable, and sustainable energy systems while helping rural communities navigate the transition to low-carbon heating technologies.

I am sincerely grateful to the Graduate School and the Graduate Dean Awards Advisory Panel for this recognition. I also thank my advisor, Dr. Ana Dyreson, for her mentorship and support throughout my doctoral studies, as well as my colleagues, collaborators, and the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering for providing an outstanding research environment.