Autism and Brain Neurons: Discovering Genes Behind Hypersensitivity
Dr. Leena Ali Ibrahim is a Palestinian-Bulgarian Assistant Professor of Bioscience at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and a rising star in the field of sensory processing and brain development. Currently leading a research lab at KAUST, her work focuses on the role of Layer 1 inhibitory neurons in cortical information processing. Through her cutting-edge research, Dr. Leena explores how sensory experiences and genetic factors shape brain development and function, contributing to a deeper understanding of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism and schizophrenia.
Dr. Leena’s groundbreaking studies utilize advanced techniques like 2-photon calcium imaging and optogenetics to map the dynamic activity of neurons and investigate the molecular mechanisms behind neural connectivity. Her research has far-reaching implications, offering insights into the brain’s ability to integrate sensory stimuli with cognitive feedback, which is crucial for understanding disorders related to sensory and cognitive impairments.
Her academic journey began with a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Southern California, followed by postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School, where she specialized in cortical development. Inspired by her personal experiences, Leena’s career is driven by a passion to understand how the brain adapts to new environments and processes sensory information.
Dr. Leena is also a dedicated mentor, fostering diversity and inclusion within her lab by supporting young female scientists from different cultural backgrounds. She is committed to empowering women in science, particularly in the Middle East, and advocates for the importance of diverse perspectives in driving scientific innovation.
Dr. Leena’s future research aims to uncover the genetic and environmental factors that influence sensory processing during brain development, with the ultimate goal of translating her findings into clinical applications that can address mental health disorders.
Dr.Leena has a simple message for every Middle Eastern woman hoping to pursue a career in science: “Your voice and contributions are invaluable – know that your unique perspective can drive innovation as science thrives on the diversity of thought and experience. With determination, anything is possible – don’t let societal barriers or expectations hold you back”.
Tell us about yourself, where you are from, and a bit about your childhood that led you to choose your career and educational path.
Living in different countries during one’s childhood, while an uncommon experience for many, is a reality for Palestinian refugees in the diaspora. This unique experience of adapting to different environments ignited my curiosity about the brain and sparked my desire to explore how the brain processes sensory information. My journey led me to pursue a career in neuroscience, driven by my fascination with how we understand the world and how the environment around us shapes brain development. I have been lucky in that I always felt supported by my family throughout my childhood, especially my dad who would always bring back home scientific materials for me and my brother which ignited our scientific curiosity further.
Tell us more about your field of education and focus.
My work centers on understanding how sensory experiences and development shape cortical information processing, with a specific focus on Layer 1, the outermost part of the brain. The cells residing in this layer of the cortex, play a pivotal role in sensory information from the environment together with top-down cognitive signals, which is essential for how we perceive and respond to the world. My research investigates how these processes develop, and how they are impacted by genetic and environmental factors, with the goal of unraveling mechanisms that could inform our understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Were there any challenges you faced… especially in terms of being a woman in the STEM field?
I have been fortunate to have the support of my advisors throughout my career, but I have certainly faced challenges related to gender bias in the STEM field. At times, I was not taken seriously or was doubted, which only fueled my determination to work harder and prove my resilience. Additionally, I have encountered misconceptions suggesting that my achievements were solely due to being a woman, a reflection of the changing attitudes towards gender diversity in recent years. Despite these challenges, I remain committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women in my lab.
Do you think there is a misconception or bias when it comes to Arab women in STEM, or is it the same globally – meaning there are fewer women in STEM in the Arab world or globally?
There is indeed a global underrepresentation of women in STEM, and this challenge becomes even more pronounced at higher ranks across all regions, including the Arab world. In fact, according to a UNESCO report, between 34-57% of the STEM graduates from the Arab world are women, which is a figure higher than that reported for other Western countries. We need to ensure that biases against women in the region are erased, and their accomplishments are appropriately highlighted. Programs like the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Awards are essential in breaking down biases and highlighting the outstanding achievements of Arab women in STEM.
What has been the highlight of your career and/or study?
One of the most rewarding highlights of my career has been establishing my research lab at KAUST in Saudi Arabia, where I have the privilege to mentor and collaborate with talented scientists. Each new finding we discover, reaffirms the importance of the work that we do, and keeps us going in the pursuit of understanding the brain.
How does your community stand to benefit from your work and efforts?
My work aims to deepen our understanding of mechanisms leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. On a community level, I hope to inspire future generations, particularly young women, to pursue science. By fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, I aim to make science more accessible and to demonstrate that anyone, regardless of background, can contribute meaningfully to the field.
How will this accolade from L’Oréal UNESCO impact your work?
This recognition provides a platform to advance my research by bringing visibility to the critical questions my lab addresses and allows me to continue supporting emerging scientists. I’m particularly hopeful that this accolade will help in securing further resources for our investigations and inspire young women in neuroscience.
Any last words you would like to share?
Science thrives on diversity of thought and experience, and I encourage everyone, especially young women, to pursue their passions and bring their unique perspectives to the field. To anyone who feels that societal expectations or biases might hold them back, remember that your ambition and passion have the power to drive change.
