Behind the Spec: Optical R&D Director Fahmida Ferdous

Q: What is your role at Atonarp?

A: I joined Atonarp a few months ago as the leader of new product development for optical spectroscopy. We are growing quickly across my two teams – Optical and Mechanical engineering – who will be working towards developing new product lines. 

My immediate primary focus now is developing a dialysate analysis system implementing some cutting-edge technologies, including Coherent Anti-stokes Raman Spectroscopy (CARS). This instrument will be used to monitor dialysate waste to help doctors evaluate patient treatment in real-time.

Q: What is your training and professional background? 

A: I have a PhD in ultrafast optics from Purdue University located in West Lafayette, Indiana. I have 15 years of experience in R&D for new optical product development with extensive knowledge in nonlinear optics, freespace and fiber optics, and ultrafast optical measurement, covering both simulation and hands-on experimentation.

I joined Atonarp to take on the challenge of new product development that can have immediate, real-world use to improve patient treatment. I enjoy challenging work in a fast-paced environment and I knew that at Atonarp there would be many opportunities to push myself and grow.

In my previous roles, I’ve had significant experience in leading teams through every aspect of product development in addition to optical R&D. This has included project planning and management, cost and budget analysis, lab design and development, equipment and tooling planning, and product life cycle planning. 

Q: What drew you to join Atonarp? 

A: I joined Atonarp to take on the challenge of new product development that can have immediate, real-world use to improve patient treatment. I enjoy challenging work in a fast-paced environment and I knew that at Atonarp there would be many opportunities to push myself and grow.

We have very ambitious goals and that of course brings challenges. We have very talented and hardworking teams, but we are still very lean. Working in the healthcare space also brings the necessity of rigorous documentation to support regulatory compliance. So our current challenges are moving as quickly as possible to expand our teams and labs to develop and deliver our cutting-edge technology to customers. Fortunately, the team here has a can-do attitude and we work together to find solutions. I have found everyone so far to offer deep technical knowledge, patience, and a commitment to teamwork.

Q: What do you do in your free time? 

I enjoy spending time with family and friends, outdoor activities, reading books, watching movies, and listening to music, and sewing and hand embroidery.

I have a big passion for home renovation, interior design, and painting - I designed and painted this accent wall in fact!