Tech’s first computer science Ph.D. grad leads new interdisciplinary computing program
One graduate. Two historic firsts.
Moumita Kamal, Ph.D., made history at Tennessee Tech as the first student to complete the requirements for the university’s new standalone Ph.D. in computer science. She now marks another first as the inaugural program coordinator of a new interdisciplinary computing program launching this spring during the Department of Computer Science’s 40th anniversary year.
“Being the first graduate of the Ph.D. in computer science program is a special milestone in my journey, which began in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and led me to my current home in Cookeville,” said Kamal, who successfully defended her dissertation, “Lost in Compression: Novel Metrics for Assessing the Faithfulness of Compressed Neural network Models,” in September 2025.
While pursuing her doctorate, Kamal served as a graduate assistant and researcher. In her new leadership role, she helps guide the growth and success of the interdisciplinary computing bachelor’s degree program, housed within in the College of Emerging and Integrative Studies. The program pairs a strong foundation in computer science with customizable concentrations that allow students to apply computing to fields such as healthcare, education, justice, business and more.
“I am thrilled to continue my career at Tech,” Kamal said. “I get to wear many hats – from developing the curriculum and managing the program to recruiting students and handling outreach. I love the variety of the work, though teaching remains close to my heart.”
Reflecting on her time as a student, Kamal said her fondest memories center on her advisors and the students she has taught.
“Tennessee Tech did more than just educate me; it ignited my passion for teaching,” she said. “The computer science faculty showed me so much kindness and support during my studies, and that has shaped how I interact with my own students. I strive to pass that same kindness and mentorship on to them.”
One moment stands out.
“At Tech, graduating students receive a challenge coin to give to the mentor who made the biggest impact on them,” Kamal said. “Recently, I received my very first coin from a student. It was one of the most meaningful and rewarding moments of my teaching journey so far, and it perfectly captures why I love what I do.”
For Kamal, making history at Tech is just the beginning.
Learn more about Tennessee Tech’s Ph.D. in Computer Science: https://www.tntech.edu/engineering/programs/csc/graduate-program.php
Learn more about the B.S. in Interdisciplinary Computing: https://www.tntech.edu/ceis/sis/interdisciplinary-computing.php