I am a dedicated researcher and Ph.D. candidate in the School of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney, Australia. My current research focuses on evaluating novel antimicrobial peptides against viruses. I hold a Master of Science degree in Microbiology from Jahangirnagar University in Bangladesh, where I conducted research on the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles of poultry microbiota and their relatedness to human isolates.
Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently excelled, maintaining an impressive academic record. I have received numerous scholarships and awards, including the University International Postgraduate Award (UIPA) from UNSW, the National Science and Technology Fellowship from the Ministry of Science and Technology in Bangladesh, and a Merit Scholarship for my outstanding performance in the Bachelor of Science program.
I have gained extensive research experience through various roles. I have worked as a research assistant at World Fish, Sustainable Aquaculture Program, and as a lab consultant under the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for the 4th Health, Population, and Nutrition Sector Program (HPNSP) through the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). I have also served as a research assistant at the One Health Laboratory in the Department of Microbiology at Jahangirnagar University, where I contributed to projects investigating the effects of antimicrobial use and abuse in Bangladesh poultry, antibiotic-resistant profiles of uropathogens causing urinary tract infections, and the relationship between periodontal microbiota and type 2 diabetes mellitus, among others. My research findings have been published in reputable journals and some of my notable publications include articles on the antiviral activity of cationic antimicrobial peptides, ocular signs and symptoms of monkeypox virus infection, and the prevalence of ESBL genes in poultry gut bacteria in Bangladesh.
In addition to my research work, I have been involved in various academic and professional activities. I have served as the Equity Liaison Officer for the Postgraduate Council (PGC) at UNSW and mentored students as part of the Women in Science (WIC) program.
With my strong academic background, research experience, and dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of microbiology, I am poised to make significant contributions to the scientific community and the fight against infectious diseases.