About Me
Hi, I’m Muhammad Ali Haidar! I am a PhD in Biology with several years of experience in research and laboratory diagnostics. My research focuses on understanding the neural circuits of 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.
Here are some of my key skills:
- Data analysis and Machine Learning
- Behavioral Testing
- Animal surgery and handling (Mice and Fruit Flies)
- Molecular Biology Techniques
- Advanced Microscopy
- Science communication and content creation
- Project management and mentoring
Experience
At Freie Universität Berlin, I lead research into how structural “blueprints” in the brain drive individual behavioral traits. By designing robust assays for visual and non-visual responses in D. melanogaster, I link circuit-level wiring to specific sleep and activity patterns. I bridge the gap between biology and data by developing reproducible Python and R pipelines for high-dimensional analysis.
I participated in the end-to-end development of a digital health platform designed to bridge medical information gaps for marginalized communities in Lebanon. By merging qualitative user research with technical project oversight, I translated complex community needs into a culturally sensitive, AI-driven resource—delivering a high-impact product within a strict six-month development and funding cycle.
I investigated novel therapeutic candidates for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), specifically focusing on how drug intervention can mitigate oxidative stress and secondary inflammatory pathways. By combining microsurgery and molecular analysis with a comprehensive battery of behavioral assays, I mapped the recovery of memory and learning paradigms post-treatment. This work culminated in a peer-reviewed publication, where I led the data visualization and mechanistic analysis of neuroprotective effects.
At the height of the pandemic, I served on the front lines of Lebanon national diagnostic effort, processing high-volume samples for all international arrivals. I managed the full molecular workflow—from manual and automated RNA extraction to RT-qPCR—within a high-throughput environment. My focus was on maintaining 100% diagnostic accuracy and streamlining intake workflows to ensure rapid turnaround times under intense national pressure.
Education
PhD in Neurobiology and Behavior
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Freie Universität Berlin
2022 - 2026
Thesis: Exploring the Relationship between Brain Wiring and Behavioral Individuality in D. melanogaster
Disputation Grade: summa cum laude
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!