David Diya
Fayetteville,AR
Summary
Analytical computational researcher specializing in the electronic and magnetic properties of condensed-matter systems and two-dimensional nanomaterials using Density Functional Theory (DFT) in the Vienna Ab initio Simulation Package (VASP). Performs defect engineering by simulating atomic vacancies to tune electronic structure and magnetic behavior. Delivers simulation-based results to support expanded nanomaterial applications.
Overview
1
1
Certification
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Research Assistant
Department of Physics, University of Arkansas
Fayetteville
01.2023 - Current
- Performed density functional theory and molecular dynamics calculations.
- Facilitated numerical analysis and atomistic simulations on HPC clusters to investigate properties of semiconducting two-dimensional materials and substrates.
- Contributed to electronic-structure research utilizing HPC resources and software including SIESTA, VASP, MATLAB, Fortran, Excel, Origin, GNUplot, VESTA, and Jmol.
- Reviewed literature and synthesized findings to prepare data analysis for ongoing research projects.
- Collaborated with peers on research projects, sharing knowledge and resources.
- Maintained publication record on Google Scholar profile at https://scholar.google.com/citations?hl=en&user=rbip_zaaaaaj.
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Department of Physics, University of Arkansas
Fayetteville
08.2022 - Current
- Organized and taught course content for University Physics I and II, Solid State Physics, Advanced Materials Science and Engineering, and Quantum Mechanics II.
- Led laboratory sessions, guided students through experimental steps, and reinforced safety procedures.
- Held weekly office hours, addressed academic questions, and provided guidance to foster student progress and engagement.
- Proctored and graded exams/homework, providing constructive feedback and support to enhance understanding, improve performance, and address grade-related concerns.
Research Assistant
Department of Physics, University of Lagos
07.2021 - 06.2022
- Conducted digital research and synthesized findings from selected journals to inform ongoing studies.
- Analyzed articles related to the current research topic to contribute to a knowledge base.
- Facilitated research meetings, project discussions, and ideation workshops to enhance collaboration.
Education
Doctor of Philosophy - Physics
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville05-2027
Bachelor of Technology (Hons.) - Physics
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology
Oyo, Nigeria12-2019
Skills
- Density functional theory
- Molecular dynamics simulations
- Electronic structure analysis
- Condensed matter physics
- Quantum mechanics
- Materials science
- Computational modeling
- Python programming
- Data analysis techniques
- Critical analysis
- Technical writing
- Analytical thinking
- Research collaboration
- Networking
Certification
- Certificate of Participation (3 STEM Education Outreach Hours) March 2026 NWARSEF Spring 2026, Certificate of Attendance/Virtual Presentation March 2026 APS Global Physics Summit 2026, Certificate of Completion (Data Security and Privacy) February 2026 University of Arkansas System, Presenter Certificate (NM05.12.10) November 2025 2025 MRS Fall Meeting & Exhibit, Member, Community Peace Development 2020 — 2021 Center for Peace Advancement in Nigeria (CEPAN)
Relevant Courses
- Mathematical Methods for Physicists
- Advanced Electromagnetic Theory
- Statistical Mechanics
- Condensed Matter Physics I & II
- Group Theory for Physics
- Quantum Mechanics I & II
Leadership Experience
- Vice-President (2018 — 2019) at the Pure and Applied Science Students’ Association, LAUTECH Chapter, Nigeria
- Team Lead (2018 — 2019) at Jesus Youth Tutorial Center, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Nigeria
- Team Lead (2016) at The Innovators, NuBreed Digital Boot Camp, Ogun, Nigeria
- Senior Prefect and Valedictorian (2015 — 2016) at Zodiac High School, Igando, Lagos, Nigeria
Timeline
Graduate Research Assistant
Department of Physics, University of Arkansas
01.2023 - Current
Graduate Teaching Assistant
Department of Physics, University of Arkansas
08.2022 - Current
Research Assistant
Department of Physics, University of Lagos
07.2021 - 06.2022
Doctor of Philosophy - Physics
University of Arkansas
Bachelor of Technology (Hons.) - Physics
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology