My love for scientific phenomena began in my earliest years, sparked by a natural curiosity about the world around me. As a child, I was captivated by the wonders of nature: the way light danced on water, the changing patterns of the seasons, and the mysteries of the night sky. These simple yet profound observations ignited a passion for understanding how the universe works, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong journey in science.
This journey formally began in high school, where I first encountered the wonders of physics in the classroom. My interest deepened as I attended the University of Pittsburgh for my undergraduate studies, where I was given the opportunity to participate in a high-energy physics research program. This experience allowed me to engage in complex experiments that further fueled my passion for discovery. It was in these research labs that I realized the power of physics to answer complex questions and solve real-world problems. My love for physics continued to flourish as I pursued graduate studies at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Here, I conducted advanced research in both microelectronics materials and rechargeable battery cathodes. This work not only pushed the boundaries of current technology but also contributed to the growing body of knowledge in materials science. The rigorous academic environment at these institutions challenged me to develop the skills necessary to succeed as a physicist and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of these critical fields.
Over the past 25 years, my career has taken me through various roles in academia and research, each offering unique opportunities to contribute to the field of physics. As an academic, I have had the privilege of teaching the next generation of physicists, sharing my passion for the subject, and mentoring students as they embark on their own journeys in science. In the research arena, I have been fortunate to work on projects that have advanced our understanding of fundamental physical principles and their applications. After years of contributing to academia, I made the decision to leave and become a patent examiner. In this new role, I had the opportunity to apply my expertise in physics to the evaluation of new technologies and innovations. This transition allowed me to contribute to the protection and promotion of intellectual property, ensuring that groundbreaking ideas are recognized and rewarded. Looking back on my career, I am grateful for the experiences and opportunities that have shaped my journey. From the early inspiration sparked in childhood to the nurturing environment of HBCUs, and the challenges and rewards of research and academia, my career as a physicist has been a fulfilling and enriching experience. As I continue to explore the frontiers of science, I remain committed to the pursuit of knowledge and the advancement of the field of physics.
Dr. Sharah Zaab holds a PhD. Howard University, an M.S. from Clark Atlanta University, a B.S. from the University of Pittsburgh. She worked for 9 years as the Physics Lab Coordinator, Instructor, and Mentor at Spelman College and 3 years as a junior patent examiner at the USPTO.