About Me

Hello! I'm Rohan Pankaj, a senior at Brown University driven by a fascination for the deep connection between technology and society. From a young age, I understood that building the future requires not only knowing how to engineer new technologies but also understanding why they matter and how they will shape our world. This conviction led me to pursue a unique academic path: dual bachelor's degrees in Electrical Engineering (B.S.) and International and Public Affairs (B.A.). This combination allows me to build a strong technical foundation in hardware and physics while simultaneously studying the frameworks that govern policy and global change.

My primary passion lies in the physical hardware that will power the next generation of computing. My current research in the Brown University School of Engineering, under the advisement of Professor Lucas Caretta, is focused on the properties of quantum-scale materials. In the lab, I perform low-noise, precision charge transport measurements on complex oxides, which have applications for novel memory and computing devices. A significant part of my work involves developing a Python model based on the Landau-Devonshire theorem to simulate the response of ferroelectric materials. I also have hands-on experience with material characterization techniques like Atomic Force Microscopy and X-Ray Diffraction.

My research journey has provided me with a broad perspective on experimental and computational physics. During the summer of 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to work at CERN as part of the Brown University group in the CMS Collaboration. There, I applied unsupervised machine learning techniques, such as Autoencoders, to detect anomalies in data from the Compact Muon Solenoid experiment and assisted in studies to calibrate the CMS Hadron Calorimeter. Before that, I contributed to a major computational project at Oregon State University’s School of Nuclear Science and Engineering, where I helped develop a tool to render 3D geometries for neutron transport simulations on Exascale computers. I am proud to be a co-author on a peer-reviewed publication for this work in The Journal of Open Source Software.

Beyond the lab, I am deeply engaged with the societal implications of scientific advancement. As a Policy Intern in the Office of Governor Dan McKee, I tracked and evaluated a variety of legislation, including science and technology policy for the state of Rhode Island. I also explore these topics through my work as an editor and writer for the Brown Political Review, where I’ve published articles on subjects ranging from quantum technology to the commercialization of space. My academic pursuits have been further enriched by participating in focused study groups on global climate change with Ambassador Todd Stern and on national security and innovation with Dr. Arun Seraphin.

As I approach my graduation in May 2026, my goal is to continue this journey at the forefront of technology. I am actively seeking PhD programs in quantum computing and materials science where I can contribute to solving fundamental challenges in building quantum hardware. In parallel, I am exploring full-time engineering roles that will allow me to apply my skills to tangible product development. Ultimately, I aspire to build technology that is not only powerful and efficient but also developed with a keen awareness of its societal impact.