The United States is heavily reliant on imported rare-earth materials to make permanent magnets. A materials science student at the University of Cincinnati is studying how to use common materials to create permanent magnets, eliminating the need for expensive and scarce rare-earth materials. Pursuing his doctoral degree at UC, Ugochukwu Philip Ochieze was named Graduate Student Engineer of the Month by the College of Engineering and Applied Science.
Why did you choose UC? What drew you here?
Why did you choose your field of study?
I chose materials science and engineering because I am fascinated by how atomic-scale structure governs macroscopic properties and real-world applications. My interest in the field began in childhood, driven by a natural curiosity about materials around me. I was particularly drawn to stones and rocks. Their shapes, textures, and variations were so intriguing that I would collect, classify, and even try to arrange them into different patterns. This early curiosity was further shaped by my family background, as my father owned a machine shop and has a strong foundation in materials and metallurgical engineering. Spending time in his workshop exposed me to practical processes and sparked a deeper desire to understand the principles behind what I observed. Over time, this curiosity evolved into a focused academic interest in mining, alloy design, materials processing, and characterization.
Briefly and simply describe your research work. Why does it interest you?
What are some of the most impactful experiences during your time at UC?
My graduate experience has been centered on advancing knowledge in metallurgy, materials design, characterization, and high-temperature alloy systems. I have gained impactful experience through my research on the effects of phosphorus in iron-nickel alloys, generating results that may contribute to refining the existing iron-nickel-phosphorus phase diagram. I have presented my findings at conferences and had the opportunity to conduct neutron experiments at the historic Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. My earlier work on the crystallographic analysis of NbTi(CoCrNi) refractory complex concentrated alloys was given second place in the Electron Microscopy category of the 2024 International Metallographic Contest. Beyond research, my experience as a graduate Teaching Assistant has been equally rewarding. I supported instruction in courses such as Heat Transfer, Materials Selection for Design, and Strength of Materials Lab while mentoring undergraduate students. I was particularly inspired by the opportunity to lead a class session on energy in Africa, using Nigeria as a case study.
UC's collaborative environment and strong industry connections make it an ideal place to develop impactful, real-world solutions that bridge the gap between science and engineering
Ugochukwu Philip Ochieze, Graduate student
What are a few of your accomplishments of which you are most proud?
I am proud to have been part of the team that won the People's Choice Award for the university at the 2023 Forging Industry Educational Research Foundation Forging Fair, which created opportunities for grants and additional recognition for the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Industrial Engineering . I have also trained multiple students in the use of key laboratory equipment and supported the Bearcats Baja Racing team by machining custom wheel hubs and gear couplings using electrical discharge machining for their senior design project and racing competition. In addition, I contributed to the CEAS graduate student orientation, where I helped welcome new students alongside graduate peers and administrative staff, and I have also served as a judge at the CEAS EXPO.
When do you expect to graduate? What are your plans after earning your degree?
I expect to graduate in summer 2027, pending the completion of my PhD dissertation. After earning my degree, I plan to continue pursuing both research and teaching. My goal is to either gain industry experience for a few years before transitioning into academia, where I can combine practical industrial insights with academic research and teaching, or to contribute to advanced research by working at a national laboratory.
Do you have any other hobbies, experiences, or involvements you want to share?
I have always enjoyed playing soccer since childhood, and I continue to play twice a week. Recently, I also started playing tennis with friends and I enjoy games such as chess and Monopoly. Beyond academics and sports, I value spending quality time with my spouse and baby. I am also an active member of the UC Nigerian Students Association and the UC Forging Club, where I engage and build connections with fellow students.
Featured image at top: Philip Ochieze's research surrounds the creation of magnets using common materials. Photo/CEAS Marketing
