Sarah Hassanein
Briefly, could you summarise what you consider your role/job is within the department?
As a DPhil candidate in the Vasilieva Lab at the Biochemistry Department, University of Oxford, I am funded by a fully funded scholarship from Egypt’s Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR). My research focuses on investigating the role of the ribonucleolytic RNA exosome complex in gene transcription, using fission yeast as a model organism. My research employs genomic techniques such as TT-seq, ChIP-seq, ssDRIP-seq, and Nanopore sequencing. Beyond my research, I actively engage in scientific discussions, collaborate with colleagues, and volunteer in initiatives such as the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Team (EDIT) to promote a more inclusive and supportive research environment.
What has motivated you to be in the job you are today?
My passion for scientific discovery and uncovering the intricacies of biological processes has been the driving force behind my research career. Earning a prestigious scholarship to pursue my PhD at the University of Oxford—one of the world's leading institutions—was a defining milestone that reinforced my commitment to advancing scientific knowledge. Throughout my academic journey, I have explored diverse fields, including physiology, molecular biology, cancer research, and genomics, each deepening my curiosity and broadening my perspective. Beyond my love for research, the unwavering support of my friends, the encouragement of my family—especially my husband, Abdulrahman Elberry—and the thrill of pushing the boundaries of knowledge continue to inspire and motivate me every day.
What would you say have been the biggest challenges you have overcome being a woman in your field?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced is balancing my academic career with being a wife and mother. I got married at 20 years old, had my first child ‘Yasseen’ at 21, and my second ‘Alia’ at 23—all while pursuing my education. Juggling family life, research, and personal growth required immense time management and perseverance. Additionally, moving abroad for the first time after spending 30 years in Egypt—with my family—to pursue my PhD at Oxford was both exhilarating and overwhelming. Adjusting to a new academic environment while ensuring my children thrived in an unfamiliar country was a significant challenge, but it has also been an incredibly rewarding experience.
What is the most rewarding part of being a female in your line of work?
The most rewarding part of my journey is proving that being a mother does not limit one's ambitions. There is a common misconception that starting a family early can slow down a woman's career, but I have learned that, with determination and support, it is possible to succeed in both. I hope my journey encourages other women to pursue their passions fearlessly, knowing that they don’t have to choose between family and career.
Who has been your biggest inspiration (if you don’t mind saying)?
My biggest inspiration has been my husband, Abdulrahman Elberry. He has instilled in me a deep sense of perseverance, hard work, and determination. His unwavering support and belief in my abilities have played a fundamental role in shaping my academic journey. As the saying goes, 'Behind every successful woman is a great man,' and Abdulrahman is that person for me—his encouragement and dedication to my success continue to inspire me every day.
How do you spend your time outside of research?
Outside of research, I spend time with my family, exploring Oxford, and engaging in outdoor activities with my children. I also enjoy reading, cooking, and writing, which helps me maintain a balanced and creative mindset.
If you could have been anything/or anyone else in the world, what would you have been?
If I weren’t a scientist, I would have pursued a career as a caregiver for elderly people. I often reflect on the immense effort my parents put into supporting me throughout my journey—building my family, academic life, and career. Their sacrifices and dedication shaped everything I’ve achieved. Now, living far from them in Oxford, I find myself deeply moved when I see elderly individuals, as I can’t help but think of how much I miss my parents and the care they provided me. Being a caregiver would allow me to give back and honor the selfless love they gave me.
Do you have any advice for younger women wanting to pursue a career in your field?
Do not let societal expectations define your journey. Whether you choose to marry young, have children, or pursue an academic career abroad, you can succeed if you stay committed to your passion. As Anthony Robbins says, 'It's not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives. It's what we do consistently.' There is no single 'correct' timeline for success—your path is yours to create. Consistency and dedication, no matter the challenges, will ultimately lead you to success.
What advice would you impart to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self not to be afraid of taking an unconventional path. Getting married young and having children while pursuing higher education seemed daunting, but it shaped me into a stronger, more determined person. I would remind myself that challenges are not roadblocks—they are just part of the journey, and they make success even more meaningful.
Where would you like to see yourself in ten years' time?
In ten years, I see myself leading a research group, contributing to groundbreaking discoveries in molecular biology. I also hope to play a role in mentoring and supporting young scientists, particularly women in STEM, to ensure that academia becomes more inclusive and diverse.
What is the most unusual thing you have been asked to do as part of your career?
One of the most unexpected tasks has been preparing for a sequencing protocol that was new to our lab. While I haven’t started the actual protocol yet, I’ve been preparing the reagents, and it's both a high-pressure and exciting challenge. It has been a great opportunity to strengthen my problem-solving skills.
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about?
I believe that visibility matters—showcasing diverse career paths and life experiences is key to breaking stereotypes. Women in science should not feel they have to choose between career and family. While it is challenging, it is entirely possible with the right support system. Consistency in pursuing both our professional and personal goals is what ultimately makes a difference, and with persistence, we can achieve balance.
