Meet some of our NHLI Scholar students and read about their experiences at Imperial.

Rayan Alawieh - MSc Genomic Medicine

 

What were you doing before coming to Imperial?

Before joining Imperial, I completed a BSc in Genetics with a 2:1 from the University of Leeds, during which I pursued several research and clinical internships.

What motivated you to apply for this scholarship?

I saw the scholarship as an opportunity to be recognised for my academic dedication and research potential.

How did you first hear about the scholarship, and what stood out to you about the opportunity?

I found the scholarship through the Imperial website while exploring funding opportunities. What stood out was the focus on academic excellence and future leadership, it felt aligned with the kind of trajectory I’m working towards.

What do you think made you a strong candidate for this scholarship?

I've built a strong academic foundation during my degree and through several research and clinical internships. These experiences have helped me explore different aspects of science and healthcare, and I believe they showed my genuine interest in research and my commitment to developing further in this field.

How do you see this scholarship helping you achieve your long-term academic or professional goals?

The scholarship helped me focus entirely on making the most of the program, from engaging deeply with coursework to pursuing independent research ideas. It’s been a boost to my academic profile and my confidence as I work toward a PhD and a career in research with clinical impact.

How has receiving this scholarship impacted your academic journey or the way you approach your studies?

Receiving the scholarship has been incredibly motivating. It’s reaffirmed my belief in the value of my work and encouraged me to aim even higher. It’s made me more intentional about seeking out opportunities for growth and collaboration.

What did you learn through the scholarship application process that you think would help others looking to apply?

Articulate your goals and passions clearly. It’s not just about listing accomplishments, but about showing who you are, where you’re headed, and how the scholarship fits into that vision. Be genuine, focused, and authentic.

 

Find out more about our MSc Genomic Medicine scholarship.

 

Zoha Nadeem - MSc Genes, Drugs, and Stem Cells

 

What were you doing before coming to Imperial?

Before joining Imperial, I followed a non-traditional academic path that helped shape my resilience and determination. I completed my GCSEs at a state school and then progressed to college, where I studied the equivalent of A-Levels. This route strengthened my commitment to higher education and deepened my motivation to succeed.

I went on to earn a BSc in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Warwick, where I developed a strong foundation in scientific research and critical thinking. After graduating, I worked full-time as a medical laboratory assistant at Spire Pathology Services, gaining hands-on experience in diagnostic testing and refining my technical skills through real-world applications of biomedical science.

It was during this time that I confirmed my interest in translational medicine and made the decision to further my academic journey at Imperial.

What motivated you to apply for this scholarship?

As a refugee, this scholarship has been vital in helping me continue my academic journey. It represents a meaningful recognition of the challenges I have overcome and inspires me to keep striving toward my goals.

I am deeply inspired by Dr. Abdus Salam, the Nobel Prize-winning physicist and renowned academic. His legacy shows that perseverance and brilliance can thrive even in the face of adversity. Being at the same institution where he made significant contributions to science is both an honour and a powerful motivator for me.

How did you first hear about the scholarship, and what stood out to you?

I discovered the scholarship while researching Imperial’s MSc Genes, Drugs, and Stem Cells programme. What stood out was how it values not only academic merit but also personal resilience, recognising both your personal achievements and the journey behind them.

What do you think made you a strong candidate?

I believe my combination of academic achievement, hands-on research experience, and personal resilience made me a strong candidate.

I am currently undertaking a six-month research project at the National Heart and Lung Institute under the supervision of Professor Jorge Bernardino de la Serna and the co-supervision of Melih Engur. Our work focuses on the role of SPR in lung tissue regeneration under mechanical stress, particularly in the context of ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI), using an Alveolus-on-chip model.

Being awarded this scholarship has further strengthened my dedication to research and inspired me to approach every aspect of my academic journey with clarity and purpose.

How do you see this scholarship helping you achieve your long-term academic or professional goals?

This scholarship has been instrumental in allowing me to pursue my MSc without the burden of financial stress, enabling me to fully focus on my academic and research development. It has also opened the door to world-class research opportunities and mentorship, both of which are essential to my long-term goal of building a career in translational medicine.

I am passionate about contributing to the development of personalised therapies by helping translate laboratory discoveries into real-world clinical application. This scholarship has not only provided a foundation for deepening my expertise in this field but has also affirmed my commitment to contributing meaningful, patient-centred innovations in healthcare. It represents a critical step in shaping my future as a researcher dedicated to translating scientific ideas into real-world medical solutions.

How has receiving this scholarship impacted your academic journey or the way you approach your studies?

Receiving this scholarship has had a profound impact on my academic journey, serving as a powerful source of motivation and validation.

Knowing that my background, challenges, and achievements have been recognised has strengthened my confidence and reinforced my belief in my potential. With this support, I have been able to fully dedicate myself to both my studies and research without the distraction of financial concerns.

This scholarship has given me greater focus, discipline, and purpose in my work, empowering me to engage not just as a student, but as a future contributor to my field. It has transformed my academic experience from one of limitation to one of opportunity and ambition.

What did you learn through the scholarship application process that you think would help others looking to apply?

The scholarship application process taught me that authenticity is one of the most powerful tools you can bring to your application. It is not just about highlighting your achievements, but about telling your story in a way that reflects your values, motivations, and resilience.

Being honest about the challenges you have faced, and how they have shaped your aspirations, adds depth and meaning to your application. I learned that what truly resonates with selection panels is a clear sense of purpose and passion.

For anyone applying, I would encourage them to focus on what drives them, to be sincere in their reflections, and to show how the scholarship would not only support their goals, but also amplify their potential to make a meaningful impact.

 

Find out more about our MSc Genes, Drugs and Stem Cells scholarships.