Kashmiri scientist Dr Shabir Hassan wins BRICS international award for research excellence

May 29, 2025 by News Desk

Dr Shabir Hassan, a Kashmiri biotechnologist based in the United Arab Emirates, was recently honoured with the BRICS International Award 2025 in Moscow, recognising his contributions to scientific research and academic collaboration across international borders.

The award was presented at a high-profile event at the World Trade Centre, attended by prominent diplomats, academics, and cultural leaders under the umbrella of the BRICS Culture Media Forum.

The ceremony, which emphasised the role of cultural projects in uniting BRICS Plus nations, featured dignitaries from Russia, Bahrain, and several other member states. Dr Hassan stood out for his role in using science as a platform for global cooperation, particularly in the field of biotechnology.

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, Dr Hassan’s research has taken him across the globe—from developing disease models for cancer and rare genetic disorders using cutting-edge technologies to pioneering accessible diagnostic tools. His academic journey has included stints at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where he contributed to biomedical innovation with applications in drug discovery and regenerative medicine.

Hassan has published extensively in high-impact journals, with over 55 peer-reviewed papers to his name. His achievements include the creation of low-cost mini-microscopes, advancements in 3D-printed biomaterials, and new techniques for protein interaction analysis. These breakthroughs have earned him several global recognitions, including grants from the Swiss and Australian governments and an award for mentorship excellence from Harvard.

Beyond his lab work, Dr Hassan has been actively involved in academic policy, science outreach, and mentorship initiatives. He has delivered public lectures at institutions such as the MIT Museum and has served in editorial roles in scientific journals. His advocacy has focused on creating educational links between the Gulf region and BRICS countries, fostering both academic mobility and institutional partnerships.

A video tribute during the event showcased his work in uniting research clusters and promoting equitable access to education in emerging economies. His recognition in Moscow was a reflection of how science, when pursued across borders, can build bridges and reshape global narratives around knowledge and cooperation.

The BRICS 2025 event also honoured other contributors from the worlds of music and culture, reinforcing the event’s broader message of unity through diverse forms of excellence.