About Me
Hi, I’m Muhammad Ali Haidar! I am currently pursuing my PhD in Berlin. My research focuses on understanding the neural circuits behind sleep and activity personalities, and how neuromodulators regulate these behaviors. Before my research in neuroethology, I was working on drug discovery for traumatic brain injury. With experience in both preclinical and basic research, I bring a broad perspective to exploring complex scientific questions. I’m also fascinated by neurotechnology and the tools it provides to understand the brain.
Beyond the lab, I’m dedicated to science communication and blending science with literature to make complex ideas engaging and relatable. If you’re interested in neuroscience, neurotech, or the art of storytelling in science, let’s connect!
Here are some of my key skills:- Behavioral Testing
- Animal surgery and handling (Mice and Fruit Flies)
- Molecular Biology Techniques
- Advanced Microscopy
- Data analysis and Machine Learning
- Science communication and content creation
- Project management and mentoring
Experience
I am part of a research group dedicated to exploring the origins of individuality in behavior using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. My project focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms underlying individual variability in sleep patterns and circadian rhythms.
My tasks include behavioral testing, advanced microsopy, and machine-learning based data analysis.
As a Volunteer Content Editor for the NeuroTechX Content Lab, I help make neurotechnology accessible by editing and curating educational articles for NTX’s Medium page. My work includes refining complex topics like brain-computer interfaces and neurofeedback systems into engaging, reader-friendly content. Through this, I have improved article readability, contributed to high-visibility publications, and supported community engagement with accessible neurotech insights.
My work focused on investigating the neuroprotective effects of Mitoquinone (MitoQ) in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury. As a Graduate Teaching Assistant for Cellular Metabolism and Protein Biochemistry, I supported lab sessions, assisted with grading, and developed teaching materials. I enhanced student engagement by creating detailed lab guides, streamlined grading with efficient feedback, and adapted to hybrid teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping improve student outcomes and confidence.
As a Molecular Technologist at the Emergency National Laboratory, I contributed to Lebanon’s official COVID-19 testing efforts, processing thousands of samples daily using RNA extraction and RT-qPCR testing. I played a key role in optimizing testing protocols and evaluating new molecular kits, enhancing the country’s testing capacity and supporting national surveillance. My work directly contributed to the rapid response and public health decisions during the pandemic, including the screening of airport samples and the implementation of effective testing workflows.
Education
PhD in Neurobiology and Behavior
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Freie Universität Berlin
2022 - Present
Focus: Investigating circadian rhythms, individuality in behavior, and neural circuitry using Drosophila melanogaster.
MSc in Biochemistry
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American University of Beirut
2019 - 2021
GPA: 3.97/4.0
Thesis: Explored molecular pathways involved in neurodegenerative diseases.
BSc in Medical Laboratory Sciences
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University of Balamand
2016 - 2019
GPA: 3.49/4.0
Focus: Specialized in diagnostic techniques and molecular biology.
Conferences
Arthropod Neuroscience Network Spring Meeting 2024
Presentation Title: Exploring Individuality in Visual and Non-Visual Behaviors in Drosophila Melanogaster
European Drosophila Neurobiology Conference 2022
IBRO-MENA School on Clinical Neuroscience from Bench to Bedside 2021
Best Presentation Award - "Effects of MitoQ on Secondary Effects of Open Head Traumatic Brain Injury in Mice"
IBRO-MENA Brigding Disparity Gap in Genetics Research of Parkinson’s Disease and Neurodegenerative Conditions 2021
Get in Touch
My inbox is always open. Whether you have a question or just want to say hi, I’ll try my best to get back to you!