In Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, science is more than gathering facts—it’s about turning knowledge into real solutions that improve health and make a difference in people’s lives. My journey in this field began in secondary school, where I got hands-on experience with plants and animals in the laboratory. This early exposure sparked a passion for science and set me on a path toward a career in research, one where I could combine learning with real-world impact. Driven by this interest, I went on to study Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) in Bangladesh, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree.

My master’s thesis was conducted at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), which was to look into a major health issue: the effect of arsenic exposure on children’s health. In Bangladesh, arsenic contamination is widespread and poses a serious health risk. My project, “Chronic Arsenic Exposure and Innate Immunity in Children,” studied how arsenic weakens the immune system over time. We found that arsenic disrupted the body’s defenses by raising levels of an antimicrobial peptide called LL-37 while lowering the infection-fighting power of macrophages. This research was not only challenging but also eye-opening—it showed me how science could address urgent health issues. My dedication to this work was recognized with the National Science and Technology (NST) Fellowship from Bangladesh’s Ministry of Science and Technology, strengthening my commitment to public health research.

While at SUST, I was also involved in KIN, a student volunteer organization. As Vice President, I worked with people from many backgrounds, learning valuable communication and leadership skills. This experience taught me that science isn’t limited to the lab or research papers; it’s also about connecting with people, understanding their needs, and working together to solve problems.

After graduating, I returned to icddr,b as a Senior Research Officer, working on various health projects. One of these explored how factors like labor migration, betel quid use, and family support affect the health of mothers and children in rural Bangladesh. Our research uncovered links between these factors and health risks, such as increased anemia among women who used betel quid, and showed how income changes affect chronic disease rates. When COVID-19 struck, I joined studies on the virus, helping to analyze infection rates and studying how our immune system responds to mRNA vaccines. These experiences broadened my understanding of health, showing how it is influenced by everything from viruses to social conditions.

Currently, I am pursuing a Ph.D. at the Shiddiky Laboratory at Charles Sturt University in Orange, Australia, where I focus on agricultural biosecurity. Working with Professor Muhammad J. A. Shiddiky and Professor Geoffrey Gurr, my research aims to develop new ways to detect harmful plant pathogens, pests, and diseases that could damage crops. This work is part of a diverse team effort, bringing together researchers from different fields, all working to find solutions that protect food supplies and support agriculture.

Reflecting on my journey, I see how resilience and hard work have been my foundation. As a child, I walked three kilometers and crossed a river daily to attend schools, rain or shine. This determination has been my anchor, helping me overcome the challenges I’ve faced in research. To me, being a scientist is more than just mastering technical skills; it’s about staying open to learning, adapting to new ideas, and working collaboratively with others to make meaningful contributions. At the Shiddiky Laboratory, I feel inspired by the opportunities in front of me and the chance to make a lasting impact. Science, for me, is not just a career but a calling to make a difference. I am eager to keep exploring new questions, finding innovative solutions, and leaving a positive mark on the world.