PhD student Dr. Isra Ibrahim earned a dental degree in Sudan, and is now part of Dr. Joy Richman’s lab, where she is studying cleft lip.

What is the focus of your PhD research project?

The problem my research is tackling is cleft lip, which is one of the most common birth defects. Our lab is trying to understand normal lip development at the cellular level so we can determine what molecular mechanisms result in abnormal development and increase the risk of orofacial clefting.

I’m specifically looking at small Rho GTPAses, which are signalling proteins and how they are involved in lip development. We are also investigating human genes that regulate these proteins and contribute to an increased risk of cleft lip.

If we can discover how someone develops cleft lip, we can eventually treat or prevent it, which would greatly improve these kids’ physical and psychological health.

What sparked your interest in this area?

I have a dental degree from my home country of Sudan. After completing my general practice residency, I did clinical studies on dental anomalies in cleft lip and palate patients and got really interested in orofacial clefting.

I moved to Texas and did an MSc in Oral Biology with Dr. Kathy Svoboda, where I worked on palate fusion. This was my first experience with lab bench work, and it was great to learn the biology and genetics of this condition since there isn’t much funding in Sudan for basic science. I met Dr. Richman when she gave a talk at Texas A&M University, and I was excited when she invited me to join her lab as a PhD student.

Why did you decide to come to UBC Dentistry?

Dr. Joy Richman is a leading researcher in Canada studying cleft lip, so I was excited at the opportunity to work with her! UBC Dentistry has an amazing research program, and I love the diversity of people I get to work with.

What advice would you give to dentistry students considering a career in research?

Be open to trying new things! I never thought I would end up in research, but after trying it, I found that I actually enjoyed it. It’s also great how research improves your problem-solving skills and allows you to challenge yourself in new ways. Making new discoveries is very exciting.

Also, as a student mom, I appreciate how research gives me the flexibility to create my own schedule and find that work-life and family balance. I am grateful for an understanding supervisor and a supportive husband.

Where do you hope your PhD leads you?

I’ve always enjoyed teaching. I’ve had the opportunity to teach dental students in Sudan as well as undergraduates throughout my PhD and it’s been a rewarding experience. In addition to teaching, I hope to continue with research in orofacial clefting once I graduate.