Asim Ahmed
Affiliations
Graduate Student
University of Calgary
Co-Director of Outreach, Neuro-Innovate Network
~ Other ~
Contact information
Web presence
Phone number
Cell: +1(587)9738089
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Preferred method of communication
Please contact me via email or phone call for any further inquiry. Thank you.
I'm looking for...
Learning opportunities
I am actively looking for research partners in area of Autism research, particularly, in Electrophysiology in Fragile X syndrome and autism.
Background
Educational Background
MSc Medical Science (Neuroscience and Neurobiology), University of Calgary , 2025
BSc Biochemistry and Molecular biology Biochemistry and Molecular biology, Quaid i Azam University Islamabad, 2021
Global UGRAD exchange semester Biochemistry, University of Southern Indiana, USA, 2019
Biography
I am a passionate researcher and project coordinator with over 2.5 years of experience in quantitative research, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. My academic journey includes an MSc in Medical Sciences at the University of Calgary, where I investigated "Electroencephalography (EEG) signals in Fragile X Syndrome mouse models," a leading genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This work has fueled my passion for advancing neurodevelopmental research and creating meaningful solutions for individuals with ASD and related conditions.
Research
Areas of Research
My research interests lie at the intersection of electrophysiology and autism, driven by a passion to understand the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. During my MSc in Medical Sciences at the University of Calgary, I conducted extensive preclinical research on Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) mouse models, which is a leading genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This work allowed me to gain expertise in electroencephalography (EEG) surgeries, recordings, and data analysis, as well as behavioral testing to assess functional outcomes.
I am particularly interested in exploring how altered neural activity contributes to the behavioral and cognitive traits associated with ASD. Using preclinical models, I investigated disruptions in brain connectivity and electrophysiological patterns that manifest in neurodevelopmental disorders. My work involved conducting EEG recordings to study brain wave patterns, which are critical for identifying atypical neural oscillations associated with ASD.
In addition to electrophysiology, I conducted behavioral experiments to evaluate social interaction, learning, and memory deficits in FXS models. This dual approach enabled me to correlate behavioral outcomes with neural activity, providing a comprehensive understanding of autism-related traits. My research also focused on identifying potential electrophysiological biomarkers for autism by analyzing EEG signals, including event-related potentials (ERPs) and oscillatory activity, to understand sensory processing, inhibitory control, and cognitive function.
My technical expertise includes:
- EEG Surgeries & Recordings: Skilled in implanting electrodes for EEG recordings in rodent models and analyzing neural activity to identify ASD-related patterns.
- Data Analysis: Proficient in MATLAB and GraphPad PRISM for analyzing complex electrophysiological datasets.
- Behavioral Testing: Experienced in assessing autism-relevant behaviors such as social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and learning/memory tasks.
- Histology & Imaging: Complemented electrophysiology with histological techniques to study structural changes in the brain.
Participation in university strategic initiatives
Projects
As part of my MSc in Medical Sciences at the University of Calgary under the supervision of Dr. Ning Cheng, my research focused on investigating electroencephalography (EEG) signals in Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) mouse models, a leading genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The primary goal of this project was to identify and analyze neurophysiological biomarkers associated with FXS to better understand its underlying mechanisms and evaluate the effects of pharmacological interventions.
Key Objectives and Methodology:
- EEG Signal Analysis:
- I conducted EEG and local field potential (LFP) surgeries and recordings in freely moving FXS mouse models to capture brain activity.
- Using advanced tools such as MATLAB, GraphPad PRISM, Excel, and Python, I performed high-end quantitative analysis of EEG data, focusing on neural oscillation patterns, event-related potentials (ERPs), and inter-trial coherence.
- Pharmacological Interventions:
- I investigated the effects of Parkinson’s disease (PD) drug treatments on EEG phenotypes in FXS mice to explore potential therapeutic pathways.
- This involved analyzing changes in EEG parameters post-treatment to assess drug efficacy in modulating neural activity.
- Behavioral Testing:
- To complement electrophysiological data, I conducted behavioral experiments to evaluate social interaction, learning, and memory deficits in FXS models.
- The integration of behavioral outcomes with EEG data provided a comprehensive understanding of the neurophysiological basis of autism-related traits.
- Data Presentation & Collaboration:
- I presented my findings at research group meetings, national seminars, and the 2023 Kids Brain Health Network conference in Ottawa.
- Additionally, I mentored junior students, participated in journal clubs, and collaborated with peers and faculty members to advance the project.
- Publications:
- My work resulted in two scientific journal articles—one as a first author and another as a co-author—highlighting the translational relevance of EEG biomarkers for understanding FXS and autism.
Significance of the Research:
This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on neurodevelopmental disorders by identifying electrophysiological biomarkers that can serve as preclinical indicators for therapeutic evaluation. By exploring how pharmacological treatments affect neural oscillations in FXS models, this project lays the groundwork for developing targeted interventions for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
Awards
- One child every child graduate scholarship, Once Child Every Child. 2023
- National Residence Hall of Honorary, NRHH, University of Southern Indiana, USA. 2019
In the News
- Amazing projects in an amazing organization. Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN). (2024)
- Global Exchange Peace Ambassador. US Embassy Islamabad. (2020)
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