Dr. Behjat Ul Mudassir | Comsats University Islamabad | Pakistan
Dr. Behjat Ul Mudassir is a highly accomplished academic and researcher in the field of molecular genetics and neurogenetics, with a career rooted in rigorous academic excellence. From her early studies in biological sciences at the University of Punjab to advanced training in human genetics at Quaid-i-Azam University and a doctoral degree from COMSATS University Islamabad, she has consistently demonstrated intellectual distinction. Her professional career combines extensive teaching experience with impactful research, focusing particularly on genetic variations linked to neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
Profile
Early Academic Pursuits
From the beginning of her academic journey, Dr. Behjat Ul Mudassir demonstrated exceptional dedication to the life sciences, consistently excelling as an A-grade student. She pursued her undergraduate studies in the biological sciences at the University of Punjab, where she built the foundation for her future specialization. Her strong performance and intellectual curiosity led her to Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, where she completed both a Master of Science and a Master of Philosophy in Human Genetics. These formative years were crucial in shaping her interest in molecular biology and the genetics of complex disorders, eventually culminating in a doctoral degree in Molecular Genetics from COMSATS University Islamabad. Throughout these academic stages, her focus remained on exploring the intricate mechanisms underlying human diseases, particularly those related to the brain.
Professional Endeavors
Dr. Mudassir has built a distinguished career as an academic and researcher, serving as a regular faculty member at Islamabad Model Colleges for many years. She has taught and mentored students in diverse areas of the biological sciences, including genetics, molecular biology, physiology, bioinformatics, and medical microbiology. Her teaching has been especially impactful in the BS Zoology program affiliated with Quaid-i-Azam University, where she continues to guide undergraduates in mastering complex scientific concepts. Alongside her teaching commitments, she has also contributed to national academic bodies, such as serving as a reviewer for BS curriculum development under the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training.
Contributions and Research Focus
The central theme of Dr. Mudassir’s research lies in neurogenetics, with a strong emphasis on understanding neurodevelopmental disorders. Her doctoral work and subsequent projects have explored genetic variations linked to conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and intellectual disability with comorbid epilepsy. She is adept in advanced molecular biology techniques, including whole exome sequencing, chromosomal microarray analysis, gene expression profiling, and RT-PCR, which she applies to uncover novel insights into genetic mechanisms. Beyond human brain disorders, her interests extend to genomics, proteomics, molecular signaling pathways, neurodegeneration, aging, and even the genetic basis of arthritis. This interdisciplinary breadth reflects her commitment to advancing biomedical knowledge through genetics and molecular biology.
Academic and Editorial Contributions
Beyond laboratory research, Dr. Mudassir plays a vital role in the global scientific community as a trusted reviewer and editorial board member for multiple leading publishers. She is part of the Board of Trusted Reviewers at Springer Nature, serves on the Associate Editorial Board for Wiley’s Advanced Genetics Journal, and is a member of the Science Advisory Board in the United States. She also reviews manuscripts for a wide range of journals, including Biochemical Genetics, BMC Medicine, and BMC Pediatrics. These responsibilities highlight her expertise and the recognition she has earned as a reliable evaluator of high-quality scientific work.
Accolades and Recognition
Dr. Mudassir’s excellence as both an educator and a researcher has been acknowledged through numerous awards and honors. She has been recognized with the Best Mentor Award for her guidance in the BS Zoology program and has consistently produced outstanding student results in university examinations. Earlier in her career, she received the Best Teacher Award by Intel International, underscoring her long-standing reputation for excellence in teaching. These recognitions reflect her ability to inspire students and foster a culture of achievement in both research and education.
Impact and Influence
Through her dual role as a researcher and educator, Dr. Mudassir has significantly influenced the fields of molecular genetics and neuroscience in Pakistan. Her work contributes not only to the academic body of knowledge but also to the training of future scientists and healthcare professionals. By bridging cutting-edge research with practical teaching, she has created pathways for students to engage with real-world genetic investigations. Furthermore, her involvement in curriculum development and peer-review activities ensures that the standards of education and research remain rigorous and globally relevant.
Legacy and Future Contributions
Looking ahead, Dr. Mudassir is poised to further expand her impact through the integration of next-generation sequencing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning into genetic research on rare disorders. Her interest in proteomics, cell signaling, and neurodegeneration indicates a forward-looking approach that embraces technological innovation alongside traditional molecular techniques. With her established record of scholarship, mentorship, and international collaboration, her legacy will be defined by both her scientific discoveries and the generations of students and researchers she has inspired. Her future contributions are set to strengthen the bridge between molecular genetics and neuroscience, addressing pressing challenges in human health and advancing knowledge at both national and global levels.
Publications
Denovo variants in POGZ and YY1 genes: The novel mega players for neurodevelopmental syndromes in two unrelated consanguineous families — Behjat Ul Mudassir, Nejat Mahdieh, Mujaddid Mudassir, Jamal B. Williams, Zehra Agha, 2025
Novel and known minor alleles of CNTNAP2 gene variants are associated with comorbidity of intellectual disability and epilepsy phenotypes: a case–control association study reveals potential biomarkers — Behjat Ul Mudassir, Zehra Agha, 2024
Genetic Heterogeneity in Four Probands Reveals HGSNAT, KDM6B, LMNA and WFS1 Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders — Behjat Ul Mudassir, Mujaddid Mudassir, Jamal B. Williams, Zehra Agha, 2024
HGSNAT, KDM6B, LMNA and WFS1 genes pathophysiological heterogeneity for neurodevelopmental disorders reveals novel, rare and ultra-rare variants in four unrelated probands of consanguineous families — Behjat Mudassir, Zehra Agha, 2024
Novel and known minor alleles of CNTNAP2 gene variants are associated with comorbidity of intellectual disability and epilepsy phenotypes: A case-control association study — Behjat Mudassir, Zehra Agha, 2023
Genome-wide CNV analysis uncovers novel pathogenic regions in cohort of five multiplex families with neurodevelopmental disorders — Behjat Ul Mudassir, Mashael Alhumaidi Alotaibi, Nadeem Kizilbash, Daliyah Alruwaili, Anwar Alruwaili, Modhi Alenezi, Zehra Agha, 2023
Novel biallelic frameshift in TRPM7 gene causes Hallermann–Streiff syndrome in a consanguineous family: a case report — Behjat Mudassir, Zehra Agha, 2023
Microcephaly, Short Stature, Intellectual Disability, Speech Absence and Cataract Are Associated with Novel Bi-Allelic Missense Variant in RTTN Gene: A Seckel Syndrome Case Report — Behjat Ul Mudassir, Zehra Agha, 2023
CNTNAP2 Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Intellectual Disability and Epilepsy comorbidity in Pakistani population — Behjat Mudassir, 2022
Conclusion
Dr. Mudassir stands out as a dedicated scientist, mentor, and reviewer whose research in neurogenetics addresses critical challenges in understanding complex brain disorders. Her commitment to advancing molecular biology and genetics, combined with her influential teaching and editorial contributions, positions her as a valuable leader in her field. With her forward-looking vision that embraces advanced technologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, she is set to leave a lasting legacy in biomedical research and education. Her career reflects not only personal excellence but also a broader impact on science, students, and society.