WASHINGTON — Optica, Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide, and the Materials Research Society (MRS) are pleased to announce the selection of Tahiyat Rahman as the 2026-2027 Optica/MRS Congressional Fellow. Rahman will serve a one-year term in Washington, D.C., working as a special legislative assistant on the staff of a member of Congress or a congressional committee.
“The Optica/MRS Congressional Fellowship opens the door to engaging with the public impact of research and technology,” said Rahman. “I hope to devote part of my professional career to reinforcing public trust in science, because I believe that will be vital for the well-being of our communities.”
As a Congressional Fellow, Rahman will bring a unique blend of high-level quantum research and grassroots organizing experience to the federal legislative process. During their doctoral work at the University of Washington, Rahman developed tabletop experiments for precision gravity measurements using quantum sensors based on neutral atoms. These advancements in compact gravitational sensors could enable applications in navigation, geosensing and mineral discovery.
Beyond the laboratory, Rahman has demonstrated a deep commitment to community building. As a bargaining representative for United Auto Workers Local 4121, they played a pivotal role in negotiating collective bargaining agreements that improved immigration rights and job security for thousands of workers.
“My scientific training and work as an organizer have taught me about the value of building consensus and trust,” said Rahman. “As a Congressional Fellow, I have the opportunity to build public consensus around science policy, and I’m excited to engage with community groups impacted by those policies.”
Throughout the fellowship year, Rahman will participate in an orientation program facilitated by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), joining a cohort of over 300 fellows from across various scientific disciplines to provide non-partisan, technical expertise to the U.S. government.
“When it comes to energy infrastructure, materials manufacturing, quantum technologies and the basic research that enables those things, we have a lot more we could be doing,” said Rahman. “I’m eager to work on policy that would invest in the workforce and training we need to build a better future.”
Rahman earned a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Washington. Their fellowship term officially begins in September 2026.
The selection process for the Congressional Fellowship involves a formal application and interview round for finalists, conducted by a committee of volunteer members from Optica and MRS. Prospective fellows are encouraged to visit the Optica and MRS websites to learn more about the program requirements and opportunities.
About Optica
Optica , Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide, is the Society dedicated to promoting the generation, application, archiving and dissemination of knowledge in the field. Founded in 1916, it is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students and others interested in the science of light. Optica's renowned publications, meetings, online resources and in-person activities fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate scientific, technical and educational achievement. Discover more at: Optica.org
About the Materials Research Society
The Materials Research Society (MRS) is a global organization of 15,000 materials researchers from academia, industry and government. MRS promotes the advancement of interdisciplinary materials research and technology to improve the quality of life. The Society serves its diverse, international membership through high-quality meetings, publications, professional development and advocacy for research and innovation. For more information, visit mrs.org and follow @Materials_MRS.
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