Amna’s journey into neuroscience and mental health research is one of curiosity, dedication and a deep commitment to bridging the gap between scientific discovery and real-world impact. As a Research Fellow at the Brain and Mind Institute (BMI), she works on translating research into meaningful interventions that improve mental health outcomes in communities. In this conversation, she shares her inspirations, most meaningful projects, and the crucial role of communication in advancing mental health awareness and care.
What sparked your interest in neuroscience, and how did you find your way into mental health research?
During one of my undergraduate summer breaks, my brother sent me a music video titled Ode to the Brain. It harmonized voices from TED Talks and speeches by renowned neuroscientists into a melody glorifying the brain—its synapses, evolution, and ability, as Vilayanur Ramachandran put it, to "contemplate the vastness of interstellar space" despite being "a mass of jelly that you can hold in the palm of your hand." That idea stuck with me.
With a background in biological sciences, I had always envisioned a career in life sciences, but this experience solidified my passion for neuroscience. Given the limited academic opportunities in Pakistan at the time, I pursued a Master’s in Neurosciences abroad, where I gained exposure to neuroimaging, neuro-genomics, and the clinical applications of neuroscience. Studying neurological diseases, I began noticing parallels between their behavioral presentations and the mental health challenges in Pakistan. This realization opened a world of opportunities for me, leading to a transition into mental health advocacy, research, and eventually my role at AKU’s Brain and Mind Institute (BMI) as an Implementation Science Research Fellow.
You have worked on many interesting projects, from studying depression in older adults to researching epilepsy. Which one has been the most meaningful to you, and why?
Each project has been impactful in its own way. Studying depression in older adults deepened my understanding of how structural brain changes correlate with symptoms, particularly apathy. My research on epilepsy introduced me to electrophysiology techniques and animal models, refining my laboratory skills. However, my most meaningful work has been in mental health implementation research. Unlike previous lab-based projects, this work allows me to directly witness the impact of interventions on people’s lives. I strongly resonate with BMI's mission of research "from neuron to neighborhood," as it mirrors my own journey, moving from studying the brain at a neuronal level to implementing mental health interventions in communities.
What exciting projects are you currently working on at the Brain and Mind Institute, and how do they contribute to mental health improvements?
One of my projects involves collaborating with colleagues from the University of Edinburgh to study the health and wellbeing of Pakistani migrant workers in Gulf countries. Migration is a critical driver of Pakistan’s economy, yet the physical and mental health challenges these workers face remain largely unexplored. Our transdisciplinary team, including social anthropologists, medical scientists, and implementation researchers, is working with policymakers and migrants to generate evidence and improve healthcare access for this population.
Another project focuses on implementing a community-based screening and referral intervention for mental health and climate resilience in flood-affected areas of Sindh, Pakistan. In collaboration with the Institute for Global Health and Development at AKU, we have developed a contextualized manual to help Lady Health Workers become first responders for mental health crises. Climate disasters, like Pakistan’s devastating floods, contribute to trauma and eco-anxiety, disproportionately affecting women. By training Lady Health Workers and strengthening primary healthcare facilities, we are laying the groundwork for integrating mental health into Pakistan’s healthcare system, aligning with BMI’s integrated mental healthcare framework.
Beyond research, you have been involved in mental health advocacy and science communication. Why is it important to talk about mental health, and what role does communication play in this field?
In my previous role as an editor and science communication writer for a digital mental health magazine, I focused on creating content that promoted preventive and promotive mental health care. Talking about mental health fosters empathy, challenges stigma, and helps individuals make sense of their experiences. Often, simply naming a condition brings relief, making struggles feel more tangible and navigable.
However, while communication is essential for normalizing mental health discussions, it is not a standalone solution. The real challenge lies in systemic issues and limited access to ethical and affordable mental healthcare. At BMI, we recognize that awareness alone is insufficient. Sustainable solutions require integrating mental healthcare into primary health services, ensuring equitable access, and addressing social determinants. Research-driven implementation is key to bridging the gap between knowledge and action, and communication plays a crucial role in setting that foundation.
