Dr Durafshan Syed is a scientist and a mother brought and born in downtown Srinagar. She was inspired by her parents who served as school teachers and they inculcated in her the value of education. At an early age, she was always fascinated by science.
At present, she works as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of California, Santa Barbara, USA. She holds a PhD in Developmental Neuroscience from National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (NCBS-TIFR) and a Masters in Biotechnology from the University of Kashmir in 2008. She graduated in Science from Women’s College, M.A. Road, Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir).
Dr Syed has expertise in Neuroscience. Her main focus was to study ‘How the nervous system selects and executes actions”. At an early age, she was captivated by Biology. “While talking to her she said, “We perform so many day-to-day activities with precision and we don’t even understand how we do it.” She exemplified, “Consider typing any article or activity, the brain decides what to write like arranging words in an accurate syntax or format. The way fingers type the strings of alphabets in a specific sequence to formulate a word. There are various decisions taken by your fingers to move in a specific manner. It is enthralling! We need to know basic science first before delving into what causes diseases. This nature of digging deep prompted me to opt for Neuroscience.
“I believe one could stay in academia and become an independent scientist also known as a principal investigator or a staff scientist. Else one can become a Faculty member at a University where you can perform a combination of research and teach simultaneously,” elaborated Dr Syed on various career opportunities in her areas of research.
As per Dr Syed, an alternative career route is to go for scientific writing/journalism and research administration and this is a viable option for researchers in general irrespective of their specialities. At present, science is very interdisciplinary.
Like everyone, I have looked at my role model for inspiration and my role model is none other than my father who worked hard to provide me with the best education. He wasn’t just my role model but rather a visionary for the community we live in. His resolve and diligence have always inspired me. Besides, there are several scientists whose work inspires me. To date, my research work in the field of neuroscience is my biggest achievement as I didn’t stop at the Master’s level. I went beyond an ordinary level despite the chaotic political situation Kashmir. Else, I am like any other Kashmiri woman but with a strong conviction to go beyond odds.
I believe, now more and more women are going for research work in science which was considered a male domain and that is a positive sign. I want more women to pursue careers in science and technology as we need women to take a lead in the field of science and technology and contribute their expertise in these areas.
Additionally, Dr Syed believes that research being interesting is also demanding. Research, especially in the field of science and technology requires time, hard work and patience. For girls or women, there are several challenges. “Our society puts a lot of hurdles in the paths of girls who pursue their careers. Boys with the same credentials are praised while girls are often criticized and forced to leave their education especially when it comes to higher studies”. I also faced many challenges and I had overcome all those trials to chase my dreams, however, I am fortunate enough to earn the support of my parents and my husband who have made this journey worth taking,” said Dr Syed.
For Dr Syed, success is an ongoing process. It doesn’t end at one point. She has many scientific discoveries to her credit. She received many postdoctoral offers from various prestigious institutes in the US and other countries. She has presented her work at various international conferences. She qualified for National level exams to get admitted to the PhD program in NCBS-TIFR, TIFR and the Indian Institute of Science (IISC).
“Every discovery no matter how small it is gives the most satisfaction. I feel proud of every new piece of information that I gain. I feel satisfied when I learn something novel or innovative and when my expertise is utilized in Kashmir, I feel elated. I study science and its impact globally. My area of interest was and is never limited to Kashmir. My research has a global reach. I want my research to benefit every human being across the globe. Scientists are never local, they have global reach, and so have I. I wish to serve humanity irrespective of caste, creed, colour, religion, region or ethnicity,” elaborated Dr Syed.
Nonetheless, she is available to guide aspiring students from Kashmir. And she aspires to be in academia and continue doing research work as an independent investigator. People especially aspiring students should explore innovation. Although there are hurdles one should take a lead.
“My message to my fellow Kashmiri women in particular and all women, in particular, is to support each other. Provide support to your subordinates and seek guidance from those superior in your career paths. Chase your dreams, and work hard with determination. If you think you can, nothing can stop you. Get going and make a difference.
