Nian Ibne Nazrul
In the words of Socrates, “An unexamined life is not worth living.” This is a sentiment Nian Ibne Nazrul, a BracU graduate from the Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (MNS), has genuinely embodied. Through his unrelenting passion for knowledge, Nian has ventured beyond traditional boundaries, exploring the intersections of math and physics and achieving incredible academic milestones. Recently, he secured a coveted position in the 2024-25 cohort at the renowned Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Canada, where he joins as a PSI student with a full scholarship, further supported by an affiliation with the University of Waterloo for his Master’s studies.
In his journey toward this achievement, Nian applied not only to the Perimeter Institute but also to the prestigious University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge—and to his amazement, he received complete scholarship offers from all three. His choice to join Perimeter was driven by his experience as a research intern there in 2023. Working on groundbreaking topics such as “String nets and related models for symmetry-enriched topological phases of matter in 2D,” Nian was inspired by the academic environment and deeply connected with Perimeter’s research goals.
Nian’s journey at BRAC University reflects his love for mathematical physics, as he quotes the great geometer Shiing Shen Chern’s poetic lines, “Physics and geometry are one family. Together holding hands, they roam to the limits of outer space.” His fascination with both subjects led him to pursue a double major in Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. He modestly clarifies, “I’m not simply a physicist or a mathematician—I am a mathematical physicist.” Nian’s achievements were recognized early when he was awarded the esteemed Abed Scholarship for outstanding academic and extracurricular accomplishments.
Besides academics, Nian is highly regarded by peers and professors, earning him a unique position within the university community. His juniors admire him for his kindness, humility, and unwavering support. Tahmid Sahriar, an MNS student, fondly recalls, “I still remember the day we first met Nian bhai at the MNS Department on the old campus. He welcomed us with open arms, always ready to help with anything, whether academics or personal struggles. He never made us feel like juniors; he treated us as friends.”
Nian’s talent for mentoring others is reflected in his encouragement to those who share his passion for math and physics. He emphasizes the importance of self-study, staying attuned to the latest in these fields, and focusing on mastering the fundamentals before moving on to advanced topics. He also advises aspiring researchers to engage in internships and projects, mentioning programs like CERN, Max Planck, and summer research institutes as valuable stepping stones. He notes that these experiences enrich one’s understanding of research beyond textbooks.
Back at BracU, Nian helped dismantle myths about students’ capabilities in mathematics by excelling in competitions. Alongside teammates Atonu Roy Chowdhury and Soumitra Das, he achieved fourth place in the National Undergraduate Mathematics Olympiad 2023 and represented Bangladesh at the International Mathematics Competition in Bulgaria. His dedication to uplifting his peers led him to contribute as an academic member of the Bangladesh Physics Olympiad.
As Nian prepares for his next chapter at the Perimeter Institute, his achievements resonate across Brac University, inspiring students and faculty alike. His story is a testament to where passion and dedication can lead, serving as both a point of pride for BracU and a beacon for future Maths and Physics enthusiasts.
