PhD Researcher from University of Bolton, United Kingdom
Md Atiqur Rahman is a passionate aerospace engineering professional with a rich background in both academia and research. Currently serving as an Engineering Lecturer at Blackpool & The Fylde College in the UK, he also pursues a Ph.D. at the University of Bolton, focusing on sustainable composite materials for aerospace applications. With over nine years of experience in aeronautical education, his expertise spans curriculum development, student mentorship, assessment, and instructional leadership. He has taught at multiple institutions including Preston College, University of Bolton, and Cambrian International College of Aviation. His research is deeply rooted in innovation, particularly in the area of natural fiber-reinforced composites, with a specific emphasis on Borassus flabellifer (palmyra palm) husk fibers. Rahman has published six research articles and actively participates in academic conferences and seminars. Known for his technical abilities and practical knowledge, he integrates tools like Ansys, SolidWorks, and Matlab in both research and teaching. Awarded Best Lecturer in 2022 and a mentor to an award-winning student in 2021, he exemplifies academic dedication. Md Rahman is committed to advancing aerospace engineering through sustainable innovations while nurturing student growth in higher education. His profile reflects a balance of scholarly excellence, practical engineering acumen, and a deep commitment to teaching.
Professional Profile
Education
Md Atiqur Rahman has pursued a solid academic trajectory in aerospace and mechanical engineering. He is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program at the University of Bolton, United Kingdom, where his research centers on the development of natural fiber-based composite materials for aerospace applications. This research is both timely and impactful, aligning with global movements toward sustainable aviation technology. Concurrently, he completed a Master of Philosophy (MPhil R2) in Mechanical Engineering at the same institution between July 2022 and November 2024, further sharpening his expertise in advanced material science and structural mechanics. His academic foundation began with a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Hertfordshire, UK, which he completed in 2012. The rigorous curriculum provided him with strong fundamentals in aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and aerospace structures. Throughout his educational journey, Md Rahman has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, integrating theory with hands-on research and software simulation. His academic path underscores a clear focus on applied engineering, sustainability, and innovation. This robust combination of qualifications positions him well for continued leadership in both academia and the aerospace research community, particularly in the development and application of bio-composites and eco-friendly engineering solutions.
Professional Experience
Md Atiqur Rahman has accumulated a diverse and extensive professional background in engineering education, spanning over nine years across the UK and Bangladesh. He currently serves as an Engineering Lecturer at Blackpool & The Fylde College, where he teaches and manages students up to Level 6, designs course materials, assesses learners, and supports curriculum alignment with Lancaster University and employer standards. Previously, he worked at Preston College, teaching aeronautical engineering to students in BTEC Pearson, City & Guilds, and EAL programs. At the University of Bolton, he served as a variable-hours lecturer, contributing to module delivery, exam preparation, and student guidance. In Bangladesh, Rahman held academic and leadership roles at Cambrian International College of Aviation and United College of Aviation, Science & Management. At Cambrian, he also acted as Internal Quality Assurer (IQA), leading BTEC curriculum development and internal training for faculty. Across all institutions, he has shown excellence in teaching, curriculum design, academic support, and student engagement. His ability to adapt his instruction based on learner capabilities has significantly enhanced academic outcomes. Rahman’s teaching is enriched by his research pursuits and practical skills, creating a well-rounded, impactful educational approach that bridges theory, practice, and innovation.
Research Interests
Md Atiqur Rahman’s research interests are centered around sustainable and advanced materials for aerospace applications. His current Ph.D. work at the University of Bolton explores the development and characterization of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites, with a particular focus on Borassus flabellifer (palmyra palm) husk fibers. He investigates their physical, thermal, mechanical, and dynamic properties to evaluate their viability as lightweight, eco-friendly alternatives to traditional aerospace materials. His broader research interest encompasses aerodynamics, structural mechanics, hypersonic flight technologies, and bio-composite development. By aligning material science with aerospace engineering, Rahman seeks to address the increasing demand for sustainability in aviation. He is particularly drawn to the lifecycle assessment of natural fibers and their transformation through alkali treatments, aiming to enhance their bonding, thermal stability, and mechanical resilience. His work has practical implications for aircraft manufacturing, structural component design, and green engineering practices. He also maintains an interest in the pedagogical methods for engineering education and how research can be translated into real-world classroom application. This multi-dimensional research approach not only contributes to the scientific community but also supports the global push for environmentally responsible aerospace solutions through academic innovation and practical application.
Research Skills
Md Atiqur Rahman possesses a well-rounded and technically proficient set of research skills that support his specialization in material science and aerospace engineering. He is highly skilled in experimental research methodologies, particularly in characterizing bio-composite materials. His hands-on expertise includes the use of advanced lab instruments such as TA Instruments (TGA, DSC, DMA) for thermal analysis, Instron for tensile and flexural testing, and FTIR spectroscopy for chemical characterization. He is also proficient in density and water uptake measurements using pycnometers and ovens, and in the preparation of composite materials through hand lay-up techniques. Rahman complements his experimental skills with strong computational abilities, using tools like Ansys for finite element analysis, SolidWorks and Fusion 360 for design modeling, and Matlab for mathematical modeling and simulations. He applies these tools to optimize material properties and validate experimental outcomes. In addition, he demonstrates strong academic writing and data interpretation skills, having authored several scientific articles. His research workflow also reflects a robust understanding of ethics, literature review, statistical analysis, and research dissemination. These combined skills allow him to carry out comprehensive investigations in aerospace material development and communicate findings effectively to both academic and industry audiences.
Awards and Honors
Md Atiqur Rahman has earned notable recognition for his excellence in both teaching and research throughout his academic career. One of his most distinguished accolades is the Best Lecturer Award (2022) from Cambrian International College of Aviation, a testament to his commitment to student engagement, curriculum innovation, and instructional excellence. His mentorship has also yielded impressive results—most notably when one of his students was selected for the BTEC Award (2021) and received the Bronze Certificate for Engineering Learner of the Year, highlighting his ability to inspire and guide learners toward excellence. In addition to institutional recognition, Rahman is affiliated with several prestigious professional bodies, including the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). His active involvement in these societies, coupled with his participation in high-profile events like the RAeS Aerodynamics Specialist Conference and Government HE Events, showcases his commitment to lifelong learning and professional development. These honors and memberships not only validate his academic contributions but also underscore his rising influence as an educator and researcher in aerospace engineering, particularly in the field of sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Conclusion
Md Atiqur Rahman stands as a dynamic and impactful figure in the realms of aerospace education and research. His journey—from a dedicated lecturer to an innovative Ph.D. researcher—demonstrates a rare blend of academic rigor, teaching excellence, and research innovation. His work on natural fiber-based composites is not only scientifically significant but also timely, addressing pressing environmental challenges within aerospace engineering. With a growing list of publications, conference presentations, and teaching awards, Rahman has established himself as a promising academic professional committed to excellence. His ability to bridge the gap between research and education ensures that his findings contribute directly to student learning and industry advancement. His diverse teaching experiences across different academic systems further enhance his instructional agility and global outlook. As he continues to expand his research collaborations, aim for high-impact journals, and pursue research leadership roles, his contributions will undoubtedly strengthen the field of sustainable aviation and engineering education. Md Atiqur Rahman is a deserving candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award, with strong potential for continued academic and research leadership. His trajectory reflects both deep expertise and future promise in advancing environmentally responsible technologies within aerospace engineering.
Publications Top Notes
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Title: Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 2: Insights into Its Thermal and Mechanical Properties
Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
Year: 2024
Citations: 3
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Title: Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 1: Insights into Its Physical and Chemical Properties
Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski
Year: 2024
Citations: 3
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Title: Effect of Alkali Treatment on Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Borassus Flabellifer Husk Fibre Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: M.A. Rahman, Mamadou Ndiaye, Bartosz Weclawski, et al.
Year: 2025
Citations: 2
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Title: Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 3: Insights into Its Morphological, Chemical and Thermal Properties after Alkali Treatment
Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
Year: 2024
Citations: 2
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Title: Optimizing Borassus Husk Fibre/Epoxy Composites: A Study on Physical, Thermal, Flexural and Dynamic Mechanical Performance
Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
Year: 2025
Citations: 1
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Title: Enhancing Thermal and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Lignocellulosic Borassus Husk Fibre/Epoxy Composites through Alkali Treatment
Authors: M.A. Rahman, M. Ndiaye, B. Weclawski, P. Farrell
Year: 2025