I have earned my Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Iowa State University (Fall, 2025). Research-wise, I am very interested in building laser spectroscopy setups - implementing my knowledge across a broad range of materials: polymers, biophysics (DNA/RNA-peptide in vitro bio-condensates) & frequency conversion crystals.

I am particularly motivated by hands-on experimental research, diagnostic development, and the thoughtful integration of data-driven tools, including machine learning, to enhance experimental insight.

When I am not in the lab, I enjoy spending time outdoors—hiking, exploring new places through solo travel, and reading books that encourage deeper thinking. I am particularly interested in geology and economics!

I place strong importance on mental well-being and balance, which I see as integral to sustaining creativity, resilience, and meaningful research.




LASER SPECTROSCOPY & OPTICS

My research focuses on laser spectroscopy - Laser speckle rheology, dynamic light scattering, and optical tweezers - most of which I have built from the bottom up.

I also have experimental experience with rheometers, white-light interferometry, and microscopy (white/black light microscopy).



MATERIALS & CHARACTERIZATION

1. During my Ph.D. (4+ years), my work primarily revolved around polymer formulations and characterization using these experimental techniques, with applications in tissue engineering and drug delivery.

2. I have also had experience working with frequency conversion crystals - KDP and DKDP used in lasers.
During my internship at Lawrence Livermore National Lab (LLNL), I carried out studies on subsurface damage opening up by means of etching of crystals using emulsions. This was carried out using high-speed cameras, confocal microscopy, and a white-light interferometer. 

As an experimentalist, I have a strong passion for hands-on research and a keen interest in leveraging tools like Machine Learning to advance my studies.

3. As part of my postdoctoral experience, I am currently characterizing material properties of in vitro biomolecular condensates using high-throughput video particle tracking microrheology, 3D spinning-disk confocal imaging, and passive/active optical tweezer microrheology to probe condensate architecture, viscoelasticity, and the effect of small-molecule interactions on condensate aging. 

 

• 2025 Carl Storm Opportunity Fellow – Gordon Research Conferences, Colloidal, Macromolecular and Polyelectrolyte Solutions.
• 2025 Research Excellence and Teaching Excellence Award – Iowa State University - IA, US
• 2024, 2025 Binger Symposium Award for competitive poster session – Iowa State University - IA, US
• 2020 University Gold Medalist – Jadavpur University – Calcutta, India 

 

• Richa Ghosh, S. A. Bentil, and J. J. Juárez. (2024). “Particle-wall hydrodynamic effects on optical trapping viscometry,” Colloids and Surfaces A, Vol 682, Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects. 

• R. Ghosh, S. A. Bentil, and J. J. Juárez. (2024). “Dynamic Light Scattering Microrheology of Phase-Separated Poly (Vinyl) Alcohol–Phytagel Blends,” Polymers 16 (20): 2875.

https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16202875 

• R. Ghosh, S. A. Bentil, and J. J. Juárez. (Manuscript stage). "Correlating drug release profile of contact lens with micro rheology using various spectroscopy tools". 

• Miah, Md, R. Ghosh, Chandra Tangudu, M. G. Olsen, and J J. Juárez. 2026. “Acoustic Streaming Micromixer with Embedded Obstacle Arrays for Dispersion Enhancement.” Heat and Mass Transfer, Vol 62 (9). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00231-026-03759-5. 

• Nathan Ray, Richa Ghosh, Jake Yoo Hyuck, Todd Noste, Jungmin Ha, Eyal Feigenbaum, Raluca Negres, Paul R. Ehrmann, Gary Tham, and Rusty Steele. (Manuscript stage). "In-situ imaging and quantifying sub-surface damage (SSD) as a function of diamond turning process variable of frequency conversion crystals."

• Richa Ghosh, S. A. Bentil, and J. J. Juárez. (Manuscript stage). "A comprehensive review on multi-speckle rheology and its application. "