Science offers a powerful lens through which to understand and solve critical health challenges. For recent graduate Khondakar Sayef Ahammed, PhD, that perspective has guided his path from a small village in India to advancing discoveries in ribonucleic acid (RNA) biology in the Microbiology and Infectious Diseases program at the MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS), and postdoctoral research.

A scientific lens on the world

From an early age, Ahammed recognized that people view life through the lens of their knowledge and experiences. For him, the scientific perspective offered the clearest and most impactful way to confront the world’s challenges.

“Despite the remarkable technological advancements of the modern world, humanity still struggles to manage public health crises — infectious disease outbreaks and cancer being striking reminders. These reflections motivated me to pursue a career in biomedical sciences, where I believe science offers not only explanations but also solutions.”

Finding the right environment for discovery

Ahammed was drawn to the Graduate School for its rigorous training, international environment and location in the heart of the world’s largest medical center.

“GSBS offers a uniquely collaborative environment that bridges basic and applied science. I was particularly drawn to its well-structured PhD curriculum and the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects under the guidance of highly experienced scientists.”

Shaped by mentorship

His doctoral research was conducted in the laboratory of Ambro van Hoof, PhD, where he was inspired by van Hoof’s mentoring style and research focus on ribonucleic acid (RNA) biology.

“It is often said that one is in the right place when the environment inspires your inner curious mind — and Ambro has inspired me in countless ways.”

Expanding knowledge of RNA processing

Ahammed’s research centers on molecular machines involved in eukaryotic RNA processing and degradation, with implications for genetic and infectious diseases. By examining patient-derived mutations, he uncovered a previously unknown function of the RNA exosome complex.

In a separate project, he investigated the biology of transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) ligases in fungal pathogens, providing insight into how this essential enzyme differs across species and holds strong  potential for next-generation drug development. His work adds to the growing body of knowledge in RNA biology and its relevance to human health.

Resilience, community and growth

Moving to a new country to pursue his PhD was one of Ahammed’s greatest challenges.

“Leaving behind my comfort zone, friends and parents was not easy, but it was necessary to pursue my dreams."

Over time, he found strength in his research and built a supportive community of peers. While he modestly says his “biggest success” is still to come, he takes pride in contributing to research that helps others push science forward.

Advice for future scientists

Reflecting on his graduate journey, Ahammed encourages new students to embrace both persistence and curiosity.

“Enjoy the ride, enjoy every moment of graduate school, and the exciting experiments you do along the way. The easiest solution is not always the best one. Growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, taking unplanned turns and exploring your own way of solving problems.”

Continuing the scientific journey

After graduation, Ahammed is continuing his training as a postdoctoral researcher, deepening his expertise in RNA biology. 

“My ongoing research in the van Hoof laboratory focuses on characterizing enzymes involved in eukaryotic RNA processing and degradation, with particular relevance to genetic and infectious diseases. I am now utilizing patient-derived mutations to uncover mechanism of defects in RNA exosome function.”

Beyond the lab, he enjoys simple pleasures: good food, familiar tunes and plenty of rest.

To Ahammed, science remains not only a career but a way of seeing the world — a lens through which new discoveries can illuminate solutions to some of the most pressing health challenges.