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Computer engineering doctoral student Ishraq Tashdid has been selected for a UCF Trustee Fellowship. This award, worth $25,000 per year for four years, is given to outstanding graduate students who are newly enrolled at UCF for their terminal degree.

“Being a recipient of the Trustee Fellowship is an incredible honor, and I feel both humbled and motivated,” Tashdid says. “This recognition of my work and potential is deeply meaningful and reinforces my commitment to making impactful contributions to the field of computer engineering.”

Tashdid thanks his wife for her support in continuing his education, as well as the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering Chair Reza Abdolvand and his graduate supervisor, Assistant Professor Sazadur Rahman.

Under Rahman’s tutelage, Tashdid is developing innovative solutions to enhance computer system reliability and security while streamlining the chip design process. His research focuses on hardware security and automating macro placement in physical design. UCF’s reputation for innovative, interdisciplinary research motivated Tashdid to become a Knight.

“UCF stood out as the ideal place for my doctoral studies due to its strong focus on interdisciplinary research and its emphasis on cutting-edge technologies,” Tashdid says. “The access to advanced tools, the collaborative environment, and the opportunity to work with exceptional faculty like Dr. Rahman have all played a significant role in my decision to pursue my Ph.D. here.”

After graduation, Tashdid plans to begin a career in academia, where he can not only develop novel technologies but shape the future of the engineering workforce.

“After graduation, I plan to continue my passion for research and teaching by joining academia,” Tashdid says. “I aim to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in hardware security and design automation while mentoring the next generation of engineers and researchers. Becoming a professor and leading impactful research will allow me to shape the future of the field while nurturing the growth of future innovators.”

Story by Marisa Ramiccio