This article is part of a captivating series on Sigma members who have recently achieved one of the highest honors in the field of nursing research: induction into Sigma’s International Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame.
My journey in global health began with completing my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 2002 from Aga Khan University in Pakistan, marking the start of a transformative career. Graduating with distinction, I was honoured with multiple scholarships, recognising my academic excellence and dedication. These achievements reflected my unwavering commitment to advancing the nursing profession.
The recognition extended beyond academic awards when I was inducted into the Rho Delta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, a prestigious honour that underscored my potential and commitment to nursing. This membership was a significant milestone, acknowledging my early promise in the field and setting the stage for my future contributions to global health.
I began my professional journey as a bedside nurse, deeply immersed in the care of oncology and neurology patients in a medical ward. The experience was both demanding and enlightening, particularly in the high-stakes environment of the stroke unit. It was here that I first discovered my passion for clinical education.
Witnessing the profound impact of education on nursing practice, I felt a compelling drive to contribute more significantly to the field. This realisation led me to transition into a role as a Clinical Nurse Educator, where I could channel my enthusiasm for teaching and mentorship into enhancing the skills and knowledge of my colleagues. This role allowed me to influence nursing practice on a broader scale and ignited a deeper desire to advance my understanding and expertise.
Fuelled by my growing interest in healthcare systems, I embarked on an MBA in Health and Hospital Management, aiming to broaden my understanding of the complexities within healthcare organisations. However, it was during this period that my passion for research truly ignited. Intrigued by electives in epidemiology and biostatistics, I became captivated by the analytical and investigative aspects of these fields. This newfound fascination led me to pursue a Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics degree at Aga Khan University in Pakistan, where I delved deeply into research methodologies and their application to public health challenges.
At Aga Khan University, I discovered my true calling in research. Immersed in maternal and child health, I explored the complex social determinants influencing health outcomes. My first major project, a Cochrane Review on community-based interventions, marked a pivotal moment in my career. Under the expert guidance of a valued professor, this project not only honed my research skills but also earned the prestigious Kenneth Warren Prize. This accolade recognised the review’s methodological rigour and significant relevance to developing countries, setting the stage for a transformative journey in global health research.
In 2012, I relocated to Australia to pursue a PhD, which I completed in 2015. This move marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in my career. My postdoctoral journey included securing a Beacon Postdoctoral Fellowship and the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Early Career and Emerging Leadership Fellowships. During this period, I established a dedicated research team with a mission to enhance the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) continuum of care for disadvantaged populations. This work has been instrumental in addressing critical gaps and improving health outcomes in underserved communities.
Over the years, my research has resulted in over 230 peer-reviewed publications and significant contributions to eight World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. These achievements reflect my commitment to advancing health outcomes through rigorous, evidence-based work. My global influence was further underscored by my listing on the World’s Top 2% Cited Scientists, highlighting the far-reaching impact of my research.
These accolades not only highlight my commitment to advancing maternal and child health but also reflect the invaluable support and collaboration of mentors, colleagues, and partners integral to my journey. Their guidance has been crucial in pushing the boundaries of research and practice. As I move forward, I remain deeply committed to driving innovation and making a meaningful impact on global health.
In the next phase of my career, I am excited to deepen my impact through expanded research initiatives addressing emerging challenges in maternal and child health, especially in underserved communities. I plan to leverage my expertise to explore innovative approaches in preconception care and adolescent health, aiming to bridge gaps in care and enhance outcomes through evidence-based strategies.
I will continue to lead and mentor cutting-edge research projects, focusing on translating findings into actionable policies and practices. Building on my experience with WHO guidelines and international collaborations, I am dedicated to refining and implementing best practices that shape global health policies and programs.
Additionally, I am eager to advance science communication and education, inspiring the next generation of researchers and practitioners. By sharing insights through various platforms, I aim to foster a broader understanding of global health issues and advocate for sustainable, impactful solutions.
As I navigate these next steps, my goal is to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and contribute to transformative improvements in global health. With a strong foundation of past achievements and a forward-looking vision, I am committed to advancing research that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of people worldwide.
Zohra Lassi, PhD, MSc EB, MBA, BScN is an Associate Professor and National Health and Medical Research Council Emerging Leader Fellow at the Robinson Research Institute and School of Public Health at the University of Adelaide in Australia. She is a member of Sigma’s Psi Zeta at-Large Chapter.