My name is Dr. Aamir Jalil and I am working as an Assistant Professor at Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan. From June to August 2025, I had the opportunity to join the lab at the University of Innsbruck, where I conducted research at the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology under the supervision of Univ.Prof.Dr. Andreas Bernkop-Schnürch. This was made possible through the support of the Ernst Mach Grant, Nachbetreuungsstipendium/EZA, funded by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research and administered by OeAD.
My research focused on the development of pharmaceutical excipients to improve drug delivery systems targeting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) — a growing global health challenge. Specifically, I worked on the characterisation of thiolated sodium alginate, a mucoadhesive and functional polymer that I previously studed as well.
What made this stay truly special was the chance to work in a high-tech lab, alongside a team of researchers who share my passion for drug delivery and polymers. I gained hands-on experience with advanced analytical techniques, participated in scientific discussions, and explored exciting new ideas for enhancing the effectiveness and safety of drug delivery.
However, this exchange was more than just time in the lab — it was a genuine academic and cultural bridge. Collaborating with Prof. Bernkop-Schnürch’s group opened up new possibilities for future research and we are already planning to co-author publications and develop joint projects.
The knowledge, friendships, and collaborations I gained during these three months will stay with me for a long time. I returned to Pakistan with renewed energy, valuable skills, and the motivation to apply what I have learned to real-world challenges back home.
I am deeply grateful to OeAD and the Austrian government for supporting international research in such a meaningful way. This experience reminded me how science truly transcends borders — and that collaboration can spark innovation in ways we don’t always foresee.
