Published on Dec 2025
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Career paths are rarely straight lines. Mine—from government regulator to academic leader—has been shaped by calculated decisions, serendipitous opportunities and a deep sense of purpose. The journey has taught me that professional evolution often occurs at the intersection of preparedness and possibility. My non-traditional career arc—from working on facility inspections as a Health Physicist at the UAE Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation to directing an economically successful academic department—holds important lessons for students plotting their future professional courses.
Establishing My Foundation
My professional life in environmental health and safety began not in a classroom, but in the field. After completing my BSc in Medical Physics, an IAEA Postgraduate Diploma and MSc in Radiation Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources, I became an HSE Coordinator at the UAE Supreme Petroleum Council in 2008.
I was immediately drawn to the tangible, real-world applications of health and safety. Working in the oil and gas sector exposed me to naturally occurring radionuclides, personal dosimetry systems and the complex task of maintaining regulatory compliance. It was demanding, fast-paced and deeply fulfilling work.
In 2010, I joined the UAE Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) as a Health Physicist—a role I held for seven years. There, I stood at the intersection of science, policy and public protection, conducting more than 100 facility inspections across nuclear, medical and industrial sectors. Each inspection was unique ranging from radiation therapy units in hospitals to radiographic facilities in heavy industry. My mission was to ensure compliance with international safety standards and safeguard workers, the public and the environment.
Regulatory inspection was demanding work. It required not only technical precision but also empathy and communication. As an inspector, I learned that the goal wasn’t simply to find faults—it was to help organizations solve problems and build a culture of safety.
The Turning Point: Entering Academia
After nearly a decade in regulatory roles, I made a surprising choice: I enrolled in a PhD program at United Arab Emirates University. After earning my doctorate, I quickly considered pursuing postdoctoral research. Many colleagues questioned why I would leave a stable and respected position. The answer was straightforward—I aimed to expand my impact.
Although my regulatory work was fulfilling, I found myself drawn to research and education. Over time, I began to notice recurring issues across facilities—gaps in training, outdated procedures and unfamiliarity with emerging risks. I realized I could make a broader and more lasting impact by addressing these systemic issues through research and by teaching the next generation of professionals in environmental health and safety.
Transitioning back into academia while working full-time was not easy; returning to student life was quite a sacrifice. Balancing professional duties with research required precision, discipline and a great deal of resilience. But I knew that the opportunity cost of further education would eventually yield new opportunities—and allow me to contribute in ways I hadn’t before.
My postdoctoral research at Carleton University, Canada, which focused on the DEAP-3600 dark matter detection experiment, expanded my understanding of large-scale scientific collaboration and precision research. Participating in an international project of this scale taught me the value of analytical rigor, teamwork and meticulous data management—skills that continue to inform my leadership today.
From Regulator to Educator: Transferable Skills
My years as a regulator continue to shape my approach to academia. The skills I developed in the field translate directly into my teaching, research and leadership:
Academic Leadership: Lessons from Administration
As Department Chair of Environmental and Public Health at ADU, I came to understand academic leadership as the art of creating an environment where both faculty and students can thrive. A typical day could involve strategic planning, reviewing grant proposals, advising students or representing the department at university meetings.
When I assumed the chairship, my primary goals were to strengthen our industry partnerships and enrich the student experience. I’m proud to say that during my tenure, we achieved both—building collaborations with major UAE and global organizations and expanding our graduate offerings significantly.
This success, I believe, was rooted in collaborative leadership. Supporting faculty members in pursuing their research ambitions and equipping them with the resources to succeed has always been central to my approach. I am also deeply committed to student success—seeing my students graduate and embark on impactful careers is among the most rewarding parts of my work.
Balancing research, teaching and leadership demands exceptional time management. I learned early in my career that no one can do everything alone. Delegation, prioritization and teamwork are essential. I also ensure protected time for my own research and student mentorship, as these keep me connected to the passion that first drew me to academia.
Advice to Students: Embrace the Process
Looking back, I can say with confidence that a fulfilling career is rarely linear. It’s shaped by curiosity, adaptability and courage. At the start of my career, I never imagined I would transition from regulatory work to academia. Yet remaining open to opportunities and continuing to learn guided me toward a path that feels truly aligned with my values.
My advice to students is to welcome every experience—internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work and research projects—all contribute to your professional growth, even if their relevance isn’t immediately clear. Some of the most transformative experiences come from unexpected places.
The world is changing at an unprecedented pace. Careers that don’t exist today will be vital tomorrow. That’s why lifelong learning, critical thinking communication and adaptability are the true cornerstones of success.
When it comes to career changes, be both thoughtful and fearless. Consider how each opportunity aligns with your values and long-term goals, but don’t shy away from calculated risks. Growth happens when we step outside our comfort zones.
The Value of Practical Experience
I am a firm believer in the power of experiential learning. Theory is important, but hands-on experience brings it to life. I encourage my students to pursue internships, cooperative placements and research projects that allow them to apply classroom concepts in practical settings.
Professional certifications and continuous education are also invaluable. Throughout my career, I have completed certifications such as NEBOSH International Certificate, IOSH Leading Safely and achieved Chartered Scientist and Senior Fellowship (SPHEA) status and currently I am perusing the Principal Fellowship (PFHEA) status. These credentials demonstrate professional competence and open doors to new opportunities. I always advise students to explore certifications relevant to their field and to view them as part of a lifelong learning journey.
Looking Ahead
As I look toward the future, my goal is to continue contributing to the growth of knowledge in environmental health, safety and sustainability, while preparing the next generation of professionals to tackle emerging global challenges. I also hope to expand my consultancy work, applying both my regulatory experience and academic insight to help organizations strengthen their health and safety programs.
If there’s one message I hope to leave my students with, it’s this: your career is a journey, not a destination. Every opportunity, success and even setback contributes to your growth. With a strong foundation of critical skills, a commitment to continuous learning and the courage to evolve, you can build a career that is both meaningful and impactful. The path may not always be straight—but that’s precisely what makes the journey worthwhile.