Get to know Zaid!

Mirza Muhammad Zaid is the newest addition to the Department of Mining and Minerals Engineering! His research primarily focuses on enhancing health and safety measures in underground mining. Zaid graduated with a B.S. in Mining Engineering in 2013 and an M.S. in Mining Engineering in 2018, both from the University of Engineering and Technology in Lahore, Pakistan. He is currently finishing his Ph.D. in Mining Engineering at the Missouri University of Science and Technology.

Why Virginia Tech? What do you love about VT?

I selected Virginia Tech due to its unwavering dedication to student development and academic excellence. I am most enthusiastic about the dynamic teaching environment and the prospect of engaging with motivated, intelligent students. The university promotes a student-centered, hands-on learning approach that is consistent with my teaching philosophy. I am eager to assist the students in understanding both theoretical concepts and practical applications, and I am delighted by their level of engagement in their education. A solid foundation for academic growth is established by the resources, research opportunities, and collaboration between departments. The welcoming campus atmosphere has made it an even more rewarding experience so far.

What is your favorite thing about being a professor/faculty member?

Mentoring and advising students is my favorite aspect of being a professor. It is immensely satisfying to watch them develop both personally and professionally. I take pleasure in assisting them in bridging the knowledge gap between theory and practical application, particularly in an area as important and practical as mining engineering.

What is your research focus? What do you hope will come of it?

My research focuses on enhancing health and safety measures in underground mining using sensor-based monitoring and the optimization of filtration systems to mitigate dust exposure. I aspire for my work to facilitate the establishment of safer working conditions in the mining sector and to promote technological innovations that improve worker safety and environmental sustainability.

What originally got you interested in your work and/or research?

My fascination with mining engineering began during my undergraduate studies when I interned at coal mines. I was captivated by the intricacy and significance of maintaining safety in perilous circumstances. Over time, my passion intensified, particularly for investigating strategies to enhance safety protocols. This ultimately directed my attention to dust exposure and safety in underground mining.

What advice do you have for students looking to join the mining and minerals engineering field?

I advise students to maintain curiosity and remain receptive to learning from both academic and experiential contexts. The mining sector is intriguing; it involves operating substantial machinery and managing extensive structures, making it both demanding and satisfying. The field is always advancing, with technical innovations creating new opportunities, especially in the extraction of rare earth minerals through sophisticated mineral processing methods, which is an increasing emphasis in the mining sector. Adaptability, continuous learning of new methodologies, and establishing a robust foundation in safety and sustainability are essential for success in this domain.