Why did you decide to come to IEMR as a Medical Research Curriculum Student?
I chose to join IEMR because of the institute’s commitment to groundbreaking research and innovation in cardiovascular medicine. Coming from a background of overcoming challenges and pursuing education against the odds, I was drawn to the opportunity to contribute to research that could make a real difference in patients’ lives.
At IEMR, I saw more than just a research institution— it’s a community of passionate individuals committed to pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge. We are working with state-of-the-art imaging technology, such as cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), to unravel the complexities of heart disease, particularly aortic stenosis. This resonated deeply with my passion for medical science and my desire to improve patient outcomes. The collaborative environment at IEMR allows me to work alongside experts from diverse fields, tackling complex clinical challenges together.
What is the most exciting part of your project?
The most exciting part of my project is exploring new ways to understand how the heart muscle tackles stress. We are calculating changes in heart geometry and wall thickness in patients with aortic stenosis prior and after aortic valve replacement to measure the work done by the heart muscle, which hasn’t been done before. This allows us to study conditions like aortic stenosis in more detail than ever before. Moreover, engaging with patients and witnessing the impact of the treatment on their lives is incredibly rewarding and inspiring. We’re eager to see how this new method can help us improve how we care for patients with heart diseases.
Read more about Mohammed’s project here
What are your plans for the next step in your education?
I am planning a semester abroad as an exchange student at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa, where I will among other things engage with researchers specializing in afterload and aortic stenosis. This experience will not only broaden my academic horizons but also deepen my understanding of global health challenges and diverse healthcare delivery systems. Looking forward, I am excited to pursue a PhD to gain comprehensive insights into myocardial function in patients with various heart diseases.
What would be your advice to other Research Students?
My advice is to stay curious and unafraid of asking questions. Embrace challenges as growth opportunities and seek guidance from mentors and peers whenever needed. Collaboration and sharing ideas, coupled with openness to feedback, are key. Efficient time management is crucial for balancing research with your medical studies. Before applying as a research student, please choose your supervisor wisely; their guidance, insights, and connections can significantly impact your research journey. Lastly, seize all opportunities, including attending national and international conferences to present your work and build your professional network.