There’s already a student waiting outside the office of Faisal Quader, Ph.D. ’20, when the adjunct professor arrives at the Information Technology and Engineering building on a Thursday afternoon. 

The recent graduate, Smriti Khilnani, M.S. ’24, information systems, patiently waits for the information systems instructor—a full-time president of Technuf LLC, philanthropist, and board member of several organizations—to open his office for his limited hours on campus. Quader breezes in, greeting his guest with a smile while asking her how she’s doing. 

“I don’t know,” the graduate says, before the pair steps inside the office. After several minutes, the duo exit and Khilnani’s face looks more relaxed and at ease than moments before. 

“She’s looking for a job, and she’s a little frustrated,” says Quader of the graduate, who is an international student. “She’s trying to get a cybersecurity job, but it needs security clearance, which she cannot get due to her non-U.S. citizen status. However, we talked about alternative solutions to her problem.”

Moments like these aren’t uncommon for Quader, a former international student himself. He spends a large portion of his time in service to those around him, whether it’s in the classroom, in a meeting room at the high-tech company he runs, or on stage when he’s singing classic Bengali songs. 

“The fact that people are so open to come to me for help—that makes my day knowing that I’m able to make a difference,” says Quader.

Bringing industry perspectives into the classroom

Since graduating in 2020, Quader has spent the last four years as a part-time instructor teaching two graduate-level cybersecurity courses at UMBC and an additional course at the University of Maryland, College Park. On top of teaching, Quader works full-time as the president of the company he co-founded, Technuf, which specializes in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), robotic process automation, mobile application development, and software engineering. The Rockville-based company supports agencies, such as the Internal Revenue Service, the National Institutes of Health, and the Department of Homeland Security, and some state governments on high-profile cybersecurity initiatives.

Quader has a B.S. in computer science from the University of Wisconsin and an M.S. in computer science and engineering from Johns Hopkins University. Before going down the path to becoming a faculty member, Quader was initially a non-degree student at UMBC, but after enjoying his class so much, he decided to pursue a doctoral degree in information systems, specializing in cybersecurity. 

“It was a difficult path working full-time and being a student, but I got so much from UMBC,” says Quader. “My mentors and professors supported me tremendously. I love this school, and now I feel like it’s time for me to give something back. Nothing is better than being able to share what I’ve learned with students.”

Quader brings his data science industry know-how to the classroom in more practical ways, educating students on how he and his team at Technuf work to address timely cybersecurity challenges, such as securing network infrastructures from cyber attacks and analyzing data to protect from cyber threats. His courses are capped to capacity every semester and has an ever-evolving waitlist of students hoping to learn from his tutelage. 

“Cybersecurity is an extremely hot topic, and I like that I can bring in the industry perspective to my theoretical teachings,” explains Quader. “I love teaching—it’s my passion. Even though I work full time, I do this because I love to be able to share what I do everyday.”

A passion for performance

While Quader has spent the last three decades in engineering, computer science, and information science as an industry leader, he’s dedicated much of his life to something he got from his mother: a love of singing. 

As a child growing up in Bangladesh, Quader frequently performed on tv shows as a vocalist and continues to feed his passion for performance today. He shares that music is his “weekend work” where he occasionally puts on family performances with his wife and two children. Every few weeks, Quader travels across the DMV singing with various groups. He’s a big fan of Lionel Richie and Bengali polymath Rabindranath Tagore. With his performances, Quader says that he is trying to create a bridge between Eastern and Western music. 

The tech-heavy data scientist says that finding time to mesh his creative passions with his analytical and technical skills gives balance to his life—music and technology are more related than one may think, he adds. 

“Technology has a lot of mathematical inductions, different kinds of modeling theories and patterns. Music is also something that is kind of like a pattern,” says Quader. “Music refreshes my brain. When the weekend comes, I focus on music and that gives me more energy to do my work. That keeps me sane.”

Supporting the next generation of data scientists and engineers

In 2023, Quader established the Technuf Endowed Fellowship at UMBC, a $100,000 fund that supports master’s or Ph.D. candidates in information systems with entrepreneurial aspirations who are conducting research and/or pursuing a career in AI/ML or cybersecurity. The fellowship, Quader shares, is particularly for students who are unable to receive financial support for their education. 

“When I was a student here in the U.S. after emigrating from Bangladesh at age 18, I didn’t have a scholarship or funding because of the fact that I was an international student. I struggled so badly and had to work three jobs to make my tuition,” he says. “I don’t want my students to go through the same process of struggling. I’m not able to help every student, but this is a good start.”

Quader also created a summer internship program at Technuf where students work hand-in-hand with data scientists and engineers on solving technical problems. Several UMBC students have gone on to work full time at Technuf following their internships, including Isha Shah, M.S. ’23, information systems. In summer 2022, Shah worked at Technuf as a software engineer and data science intern. 

“I often found it challenging to secure job or internship opportunities. During one of our initial classes, Dr. Quader mentioned his company, which immediately caught my interest,” says Shah. “I reached out to him to inquire about internship opportunities and to my surprise, he responded with enthusiasm and asked me to send over my resume. That moment felt like a turning point in my career journey.”

After graduating from UMBC, Shah was offered a full-time position at Technuf and currently works at the company as a product development engineer.

“Dr. Quader has had a tremendous impact on both my studies and career. His approach to teaching went far beyond textbooks. He always emphasized the importance of real-world applications and critical thinking, which made a significant difference in my understanding of cybersecurity concepts,” Shah explains. “Dr. Quader believed in my potential and opened doors for me at Technuf, where I’ve been able to gain invaluable hands-on experience in the field.”

In October, Quader was honored for his service as a 2024 recipient of UMBC’s Distinguished Service Alumni Award.

“That was a big encouragement for me,” Quader beamed. “I can see the difference I’m able to make with my students by giving them job opportunities, internships, training, and industry focused-teaching. That’s what keeps me going.”

The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) seeks a qualified Staff Accountant to play an integral part of the day-to-day operations of the Finance department. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the museum’s cash management activities, all aspects of accounts receivable recording, timely month-end close reconciliations and general ledger entries.

This full-time, exempt position reports to the Senior Director of Finance.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Enroll in EDHS 102 - Emergency Medical Responder this Winter 2025 mini-session and gain advanced first aid skills that go beyond the basics.  This course offers hands-on training that can make you a trusted responder in any emergency - whether you're at work, at home, or out in the community.

- Why take EDHS 102?

Advanced First Aid Skills: Learn techniques to manage emergencies and injuries in real life situations.

Flexible Certification: Choose to pursue certification if it fits your goals, but it's optional - master these skills for your own knowledge and confidence!

Build towards your EDHS Minor: This course keeps you on track with your Emergency Health Systems Minor, leaving only three electives to complete the program.

Whether you want a career in emergency response or simply want to be ready to help when it counts, EDHS 102 prepares you for both.  Don't miss this chance to gain valuable skills that are useful everywhere!

Upcoming Bioinformatics Events

November 7, 2024
Guest Speaker: Francis Collins
Join us for an inspiring talk by Dr. Francis Collins, renowned geneticist and former director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the foremost figures in genomics!
Time: 5 PM
Location: PAHB 108

https://umbc.webex.com/umbc/j.php?MTID=m5eb81c2726b50932a38c3b31edd71861

November 13, 2024
World Science Day: Structural Biology Pasta Challenge
Celebrate World Science Day with our engaging and competitive Structural Biology Pasta Challenge! Teams of 2-3 students will use AlphaFold3 and pasta modeling to reconstruct protein structures based on given sequences and mutations from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Prizes will be awarded to the top teams: Gold, Silver, and Bronze.

Challenge Details:

• Teams will receive PDB proteins with varying difficulty levels.

• Utilize AlphaFold3 to predict structural mutations.

• Reconstruct the 3D protein using pasta.

• Judged by the E-Board, winners will be announced at the end and will receive mystery prizes.

Time: 5 PM
Location: PAHB 107

November 27, 2024
Guest Speaker: Swathi Penumutchu
Join us for an enlightening session with Swathi Penumutchu, a postdoctoral researcher at MIT and UMBC alumna, as she shares insights from her current research and academic journey.

Time: 5 PM
Location: PAHB 107

Position Summary:

Become part of Port Discovery's new initiative, the At Play Learning Institute (APLI). Our mission is to engage caregivers and children with innovative, play-based educational experiences and programs. This position includes informal interactions, as well as structured activities and workshops within the museum and offsite.

Please see below some November Wellness webinars provided by the State Employee Benefits Division. Register now to secure your spot!

In this month's newsletter you'll find opportunities to learn how to reduce your risk of developing diabetes, and if you've been diagnosed with it, how to better manage it. And there's more to support your good health, from Mindful Mondays and Wellness. From the Kitchen to Healthier by the Minute and Unwind Time on Fridays. Here's to a healthy November!

Mindful Mondays: Embrace the Good!

Monday, 11/18, 11:00 am - 11:30 am: What is Self-Compassion?

When you are overwhelmed by stress, do you become self-critical? If so, you are not alone - psychological stress often has this effect. This soul-searching session will teach you how to be more gentle, empathetic, and gracious to yourself.

Register for 11/18 What is Self-Compassion?

Monday, 11/25, 11:00 am - 11:30 am: Embracing the Good

When you are overwhelmed by stress, do you become self-critical? If so, you are not alone - psychological stress often has this effect. This soul-searching session will teach you how to be more gentle, empathetic, and gracious to yourself when stress takes over.

Register for 11/25 Embracing the Good

Tuesday Wellness from the Kitchen with Chef Sandra Lewis:

Tuesday, 11/12, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Warm Cranberry Feta Spread

This elegant yet easy oven-baked appetizer is a delicious combination of creamy baked feta that perfectly balances with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries. This is ideal for cozy gatherings and entertaining during the holidays!

Register for 11/12 Warm Cranberry Feta Spread

Tuesday, 11/19, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Roasted Cornish Game Hen

Discover how easy it is to roast a Cornish game hen that is infused with the bright flavors of lemon and the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary. This dish, perfect for any occasion, will elevate your dining table!
Register for 11/19 Roasted Cornish Game Hen

Tuesday, 11/26, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Turkey Pot Pie

You'll know just what to do with your Thanksgiving leftovers with this perfect comfort food! Featuring turkey, carrot, potato, leek, and green peas served in a puff pastry shell, this is a recipe for any night of the week!
Register for 11/26 Turkey Pot Pie

Healthy U Wednesdays: Women's Health Latest Updates:Healthy Habits and Coaching for Success!

Wednesday, 11/13, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Healthy Habits for Success

In this interactive discussion, learn from the facilitator and other participants how to enhance your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health in simple actionable steps that ensure success.

Register for 11/13 Healthy Habits for Success

Wednesday, 11/20, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: Health Coaching for Success

Just as a sports coach can help an athlete excel at a sport, a health and wellness coach can help you excel at living your best life! Health and wellness coaches are experts in areas such as nutrition, physical activity, weight management, stress management, and more. Learn about the resources available to you as a State employee and hear from coaching participants about their experiences.

Register for 11/20 Health Coaching for Success

Thursday Health Focus: Get "InStep" with Diabetes

Thursday, 11/7, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: InStep with Diabetes - Improve Your Understanding of Diabetes

Learn how diabetes develops, its impact on your or your loved one's health, and why it's important to manage blood sugar levels.

Register for 11/7 Improve Your Understanding of Diabetes

Thursday, 11/14, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: InStep with Diabetes - The Benefits of Healthy Eating and Regular Physical Activity 

Review the benefits of healthy eating and regular physical activity and set achievable goals for both.

Register for 11/14 The Benefits of Healthy Eating and Regular Physical Activity

Thursday, 11/21, 11:00 am - 11:45 am: InStep with Diabetes - How to Minimize Diabetes Complications

Review the how and why of taking diabetes medications and get additional tips to minimize the risks of diabetes complications.

Register for 11/21 How to Minimize Diabetes Complications

Unwind Time Fridays: The Gratitude Experience!

Friday, 11/8, 11:00 am - 11:15 am: The Gratitude Experience

When you experience gratitude, you release feel-good hormones that elevate your mood. Join this guided meditation for an immediate mood boost!

Register for 11/8 The Gratitude Experience

Friday, 11/15, 11:00 am - 11:15 am: Fill Your Cup of Gratitude

In this guided meditation, you will fill your gratitude cup to drink from it all day long!

Register for 11/15 Fill Your Gratitude Cup

Friday, 11/22, 11:00 am - 11:15 am: Share Your Cup of Gratitude

This guided meditation will help you discover your best way to express gratitude to others.

Register for 11/22 Share Your Cup of Gratitude

Healthier by the Minute

Friday, 11/8, 11:30 am - 11:45 am: Healthier by the Minute - Understanding Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions such as high blood pressure and blood sugar, excess fat around the waist, and high cholesterol. Learn how to prevent or manage metabolic syndrome.

Register for 11/8 Understanding Metabolic Syndrome

Friday, 11/15, 11:30 am - 11:45 am: Healthier by the Minute - Understanding Diabetes

It may feel overwhelming to manage life with diabetes. Join this session to learn about support and resources available to you.

Register for 11/15 Understanding Diabetes

Friday, 11/22, 11:30 am - 11:45 am: Healthier by the Minute - Living Tobacco Free

November is both Diabetes Awareness and Tobacco Cessation Month! Join this informative and empowering session to learn how to start (or re-start) a tobacco-free life.

Register for 11/22 Living Tobacco Free