Rida Arif

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT RIDA ARIF

Whether it’s sports, education, research, art, or culture—I’ve consistently taken on challenges with passion and purpose. As a first-class graduate in both MSc Cancer Biology & Therapeutics and BSc Biotechnology, I’ve pursued scientific inquiry with dedication. My academic work includes research on the genetic predispositions underlying neurological disorders such as depression and claustrophobia. At Decode Genomics, I investigated the role of GPM6A, a gene involved in neuronal plasticity, and its potential contribution to anxiety and mood disorders within the Pakistani population—an area still underrepresented in global literature.For my master’s thesis, I explored the synergistic and cytotoxic effects of EZH2 inhibitor GSK343, cisplatin, and DMSO on head and neck cancer cell lines (HN5 and SCC47). I employed techniques like flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry (ICC), and statistical analyses (ANOVA, t-tests), gaining practical proficiency in cancer biology, therapeutics, and drug response studies.But science is only one part of my story.I’m also the proud founder of RAF — Pakistan’s first bird sanctuary for wild avian rescue and rehabilitation, where I created a safe haven for injured and endangered birds. Over time, RAF evolved into a grassroots humanitarian initiative that also provided food, medicine, education support, and bill relief to single mothers, orphaned children, and struggling families—becoming a symbol of compassion and community care in my city.Outside academia, I’ve led a successful painting business and have won multiple medals in gymnastics and sprinting competitions at the city level—proving that versatility and discipline can co-exist.I bring a unique blend of scientific expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, artistic expression, and community leadership to every role I step into. I’m always open to meaningful collaborations, innovative research, and roles where science and compassion meet.