The Future of Textiles Takes the Virtual Stage: AATCC Announces 2026 Herman and Myrtle Goldstein Graduate Student Paper Competition
DURHAM, N.C., September 2, 2026— The next big idea in textiles might just come from a student.
This September, AATCC will put emerging researchers and their work in the spotlight during the 2026 Herman and Myrtle Goldstein Graduate Student Paper Competition, a showcase of outstanding student research and the next generation of talent shaping the textile industry.
Presented virtually during the week of September 14–18, 2026, this year’s competition will give textile professionals, researchers, educators, and fellow students from around the world an opportunity to hear directly from these rising researchers.
The Herman and Myrtle Goldstein Graduate Student Paper Competition challenges students to do more than conduct exceptional research. Finalists must communicate their work, demonstrate its relevance, and present their findings before experienced professionals from across the textile community.
Meet the 2026 Finalists
Shariful Islam Tushar, University of Georgia
“Eco-Friendly Nanocellulose/Chitosan Aerogels: From Material Design to Hygiene Applications”
Basil Joseph, Thomas Jefferson University
“Sensitive, Rapid, New Methods for Textile Microfiber Shedding Assessment During Laundering.”
Chenxi Zhu, North Carolina State University
“3D Texture Creation on Synthetic Fabrics using Laser Engraving Technology”
Anita Amir Labonno, North Carolina State University
“Skin Bioaccessibility of Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Leached from Firefighter’s Turnout Gear using Skin Excretions”
“These students represent exactly what we want to encourage in the future of the textile industry: curiosity, rigorous research, and the ability to take an idea and demonstrate why it matters,” said Kanti Jasani, Chair and Head Judge of the Herman and Myrtle Goldstein Student Paper Competition. “This competition gives us an opportunity not only to recognize excellent student research, but to introduce these emerging professionals and their ideas to the broader textile community.”
Two Sessions. Four Finalists. A Look at What’s Next.
Rather than limiting the competition to those able to attend an in-person event, the 2026 competition will feature two virtual presentation sessions, opening the doors to a broader audience and giving each finalist dedicated time to showcase their research.
Attendees will have the opportunity to discover new research, hear fresh perspectives, and support students preparing to become the next generation of textile scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, and industry leaders.
2026 Virtual Presentation Schedule
Session One
September 15, 2026 | 2:00 PM Eastern
Featuring: Shariful Islam Tushar and Basil Joseph
Register for day one here: https://www.aatcc.org/events/herman-myrtle-goldstein-graduate-student-paper-competition-presentations-session-1
Session Two
September 17, 2026 | 2:00 PM Eastern
Featuring: Chenxi Zhu and Anita Amir Labonno
Register for day two here: https://www.aatcc.org/events/herman-myrtle-goldstein-graduate-student-paper-competition-presentations-session-2
Whether you work in the textile industry, conduct research, teach the next generation, or are just beginning your own textile career, AATCC invites you to join us and see what these students are bringing to the future of textiles.
The 2026 finalists will also be recognized during AATCC’s 2026 International Summit, October 4–6 in Wilmington, North Carolina.
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About the Herman and Myrtle Goldstein Graduate Student Paper Competition
The Herman and Myrtle Goldstein Graduate Student Paper Competition provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate their research, technical knowledge, and presentation skills while gaining exposure within the global textile community.
About AATCC
AATCC connects the global textile community to empower an innovative, informed, and sustainable future. Headquartered in the Research Triangle Park of North Carolina, AATCC has provided standards development, testing materials, educational resources, and professional networking to the global textile industry for more than a century.
AATCC’s longstanding commitment to textile education, student development, and creating opportunities for emerging professionals to connect with the industry.
Contact: Amanda N. Thaxton, Membership Manager