This year, Professor Ian David Hickson from the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine and Professor Messoud Ashina from the Department of Clinical Medicine at the University of Copenhagen are the proud recipients of the preclinical and clinical awards respectively. With the award, they will each receive a grant of DKK 1.5 million and an individual award of DKK 250,000.
We have had a conversation with Professor Messoud Ashina to understand his journey as a researcher and what inspired his career in neurology:
Could you tell us about your research and why it’s significant?
My current research is centred on migraine, though I initially studied tension type headache. I have applied techniques from migraine research to study tension type headache. After concluding my PhD and doctoral theses, my mentor, Professor Jes Olesen, motivated me to redirect my focus towards human migraine models and further evolve his methodologies. Migraine research is crucial as a significant number of people suffer from this debilitating disease. Our primary goal is to discover biomarkers and provide new treatments.
When did you realize that you wanted to be a researcher?
Since my medical studies in Azerbaijan, I’ve been intrigued by neurology. One of my university professors was Professor Salayeva who had high expectations of her students. Her encouragement after my successful exam led me towards a career in neurology. From that day, I worked relentlessly to become a neurologist. Upon securing a position at the Department of Neurology at Rigshospitalet, I discovered the wonders of scientific research, particularly the advantages of imaging techniques like MRI and PET.
About the KFJ Award:
The Kirsten og Freddy Johansens Fond Award is given annually to two researchers who have made significant contributions to medical science, among other fields. The recipients each receive a grant of DKK 1.5 million and a personal prize of DKK 250,000.
Who has been your greatest career inspiration?
Without a doubt, it is Jes Olesen. He is an exceptionally gifted researcher who has imparted invaluable knowledge. His research approach, combined with mine, has laid the groundwork for my career. Jes has not only been my primary source of inspiration but also provided the freedom and opportunities necessary for my growth and impact on migraine research.
What has been your biggest career challenge?
Simply conducting research and authoring articles is not enough. Securing funding to finance research has always been a challenging process. Learning to write effective grant applications and communicating the intent of your research is a skill that requires time and patience. Ultimately, even the most innovative and exceptional research cannot progress without funding.
What are you most proud of in your career?
I take immense pride in the individuals I have mentored and trained, who have all achieved success in their respective paths. As a professor, researcher, and leader, their success fills me with profound pride and joy.
What advice would you give to aspiring researchers?
Align yourself with a supportive mentor and research group. Clear planning and structure are also crucial. You will encounter challenges periodically, but in the right environment, you will always find solutions and support. Remember, if your initial strategy fails, do not despair. Persistently seek out new solutions.
