Muhammad Ali Haidar.

Neurobiology PhD Candidate

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About Me

Hi, I’m Muhammad Ali Haidar! I am currently pursuing my PhD in Berlin. 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:
  • 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

Research Associate/PhD Candidate - Freie Universität Berlin
Apr 2022 - July 2026
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.
Technical Project Manager - LebMASH
Feb 2025 - Aug 2025
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.
Research Assistant - American University of Beirut
Aug 2021 - Feb 2022
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.
Molecular Technologist - Lebanese University
Oct 2020 - Sep 2021
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 - Freie Universität Berlin
2022 - 2026
Focus: Investigating circadian rhythms, individuality in behavior, and neural circuitry using Drosophila melanogaster.
MSc in Biochemistry - American University of Beirut
2019 - 2021
GPA: 3.97/4.0
Thesis: Explored molecular pathways involved in neurodegenerative diseases.
BSc in Medical Laboratory Sciences - 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!