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5 minutes with Naila Haq - International Day of Women and Girls in Science edition

Dr Hannah Rosa

Lab Technician

10 February 2021

Dr Naila Haq is a Research Associate in the Department of Diabetes, School of Life Course Sciences. As a celebration of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we sat down with Naila to learn more about her field of work and advice for those considering a similar career path.

5-minutes-with-naila-haw

Why did you decide to pursue science as a career?

Science is very logical, and I love the intricate details. I enjoy troubleshooting and trying out new ideas.

Tell us about your experiences in higher education?

I completed my PhD at the Department of Genetics and Genomic Medicine at UCL. I was looking at obesity and trying to investigate the biological processes contributing to the maintenance of normal body weight. I got a lot of experience in various techniques including using mouse models of genetic disease and became interested in how the brain interacts with the gut in the development of obesity. I had a great time during my PhD - it is a learning curve, and I was allowed to explore and think ‘outside the box’. I was encouraged to come up with new ideas for proof of concept and how it can be taken forward. My supervisors were great too!

What has been the biggest challenge so far in your career?

I think I’m yet to face my biggest challenge!

What advice do you have for people considering a career in research?

It is hard work and not a lot of money. Think hard before you want to take this as your career. The career structure is not very defined. Saying that, it is also tremendously rewarding when you uncover even a bit of the mystery of science.

In this story

Naila Haq

Naila Haq

Research Associate

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