From Balochistan to Benchside Breakthroughs: A Fulbright Scholar’s Mission in Alzheimer’s Research

I come from Koh-E-Suleman, a remote and underserved region of Balochistan, Pakistan, where academic and healthcare opportunities are extremely limited, particularly for women. Although I initially aspired to study neuroscience, no such programs existed in my province, and I wasn’t allowed to travel outside the region. Undeterred, I pursued a degree in biotechnology from BUITEMS, Quetta, which became the foundation for my scientific journey.

During my undergraduate studies, I conducted genetic and molecular research on congenital heart defects, pioneering work within my department. I also gained essential hands-on experience with tissue culture techniques. But it was my grandfather’s struggle with Alzheimer’s disease that truly defined my path. Watching someone I love deteriorate mentally, without access to proper care, planted a seed of determination. I knew I had to be part of the solution.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the Fulbright  Scholarship?

When I learned about the Fulbright Program, it seemed almost out of reach, a global opportunity for someone who had never left her region and who had limited financial and academic resources. Yet I worked relentlessly; preparing for the TOEFL and GRE exams sounded like distant mountains to climb. Still, I studied, applied, and held onto hope using online resources and sheer willpower. Against all odds, I was awarded the Fulbright scholarship, becoming one of the first women from my community to receive such recognition. Winning the scholarship was a transformative milestone, not only for me but for my entire community.

Through Fulbright, I completed my M.S. in Biomedical Science, Major: Neuroscience, at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, working in the Center for Neurodegeneration and Experimental Therapeutics. My research explored pharmacologic proteasome activators in Drosophila Alzheimer’s models, particularly their neuroprotective effects independent of amyloid-beta clearance. I further worked with patient-derived iPSCs and cerebral organoids to dissect the molecular underpinnings of Alzheimer’s disease. These experiences expanded both my technical skillset and scientific vision.

Returning to Pakistan has only deepened my commitment. The country's healthcare system, especially in regions like Balochistan, is alarmingly under-equipped to handle neurodegenerative conditions. The complete absence of a neurology hospital in my province underscores the desperate need for locally-driven research, awareness, and medical infrastructure. Rather than discourage me, this reality has fueled my passion even further.

I now aim to not only continue contributing to Alzheimer’s research but also use my platform to advocate for scientific awareness in my region. I want to inspire young girls from underserved areas to pursue STEM fields, break cultural barriers, and be agents of change. If my journey, from a small district in Balochistan to an international research center, can light the way for others, then it has all been worth it.

What Made My Application Stand Out?

• Personal story rooted in purpose: I wasn’t applying just for a degree; I was applying to find solutions to a disease I had witnessed affect someone I loved.
• Real-world advocacy and academic synergy: My awareness work on Alzheimer’s in underserved communities demonstrated not just scientific interest but societal responsibility.

What Would I Have Done Differently?

I would have reached out to potential supervisors earlier and tailored my proposals more closely to their lab’s vision. Networking and mentorship can make all the difference in getting accepted and thriving in international programs.

Advice to Future Applicants

• Start early and stay focused. Whether it’s test prep or writing essays, give yourself time.
• Own your story. What sets you apart is not just your GPA—it’s your journey, motivation, and how you’ve used challenges to fuel your ambition.
• Engage meaningfully with your community. Science that impacts lives starts with empathy.