Global Perspectives: The Significance of Visiting Scholars in Research and Teaching at the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences - Part 1 of 4: Dr. Alaa Abdalla, MD
BACKGROUND
Alaa Abdalla completed her medical degree in 2016, followed by a residency in psychiatry. She earned her master's degree in Psychiatry and Neurology in 2019 from the Faculty of Medicine at Suez Canal University, Egypt. Currently, she serves as a teaching assistant and a specialist in psychiatry, while also pursuing her PhD in psychiatry at the same institution.
OPPORTUNITIES
Alaa started her research career during her residency while pursuing her master’s degree, and she continued to build on this foundation by co-leading the child and adolescent group at the Mental Health Research Network of Egypt. This network comprises professionals dedicated to advancing scientific research and addresses mental health issues in Egypt and the broader Arab region. Upon embarking on her PhD, Alaa sought to further refine her research skills and recognized the University of Minnesota as a leading institution in psychiatric research. "I was particularly interested in exploring the underlying psychopathology of depression and suicidal behaviors in adolescents, and I identified Dr. Kathryn Cullen, MD, as a prominent expert in this field. I reached out to her to become one of her visiting scholars as part of my PhD program in Egypt, and I was fortunate that she accepted me," Alaa said.
RESEARCH AND CONNECTIONS
Alaa's previous research in Egypt, conducted alongside her team, primarily explored emotion dysregulation and alexithymia in children and adolescents, examining their associations with various psychiatric disorders. Additionally, the research addressed internet and gaming addiction within this age group. Her doctoral research further delved into non-suicidal behaviors and problematic internet use among adolescents with depression. These investigations are closely aligned with her current research at the University, under the supervision of Dr. Cullen. Alaa remarked, "Currently, I am examining neuro developmental trajectories of depression, non-suicidal self-injury, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in youth, utilizing data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study," which represents the largest long-term investigation of brain development and child health in the United States. Her research within the BRIDGES study (Brain Imaging Development of Girls’ Emotion and Self) is focused on the longitudinal analysis of alexithymia and suicidal ideation. "These projects are significantly advancing my research and clinical competencies," Alaa stated. She is also involved in another project collaborating with Dr. Charles Lewis investigating the neurometabolite markers for suicidal behaviors in adolescents with depression using neuroimaging techniques as (fMRI and 1H-MRS) and neuromodulation techniques (sp/ppTMS-EEG).
Alaa presenting a poster from the BRIDGES study at the Wisconsin Symposium on Emotion, April 2024.
TIME WITH OUR DEPARTMENT
By the end of her time here, Alaa aspires to have acquired significant expertise in advanced neuroimaging and neuromodulation techniques, as well as in longitudinal data analysis. She aims to disseminate her findings through publications in high-impact journals and to develop culturally relevant intervention strategies addressing mental health issues in adolescents. Furthermore, Alaa seeks to "establish a collaborative network between the University of Minnesota and her home institution to facilitate ongoing research and the exchange of knowledge."
LIVING IN THE USA
Relocating to the USA for her research has been an exhilarating journey for Alaa, particularly as it marks her first solo international travel experience. "I was eager to immerse myself in a new culture and connect with people from diverse backgrounds," Alaa remarked, adding that "one unexpected aspect has been the drastic weather changes compared to Egypt – it's so cold here!" Alaa has developed a deep affection for Minnesota and intends to capture many photos to create an album dedicated to her time in Minnesota.
ON A FINAL NOTE
Alaa emphasized the significance of international collaboration in research, highlighting how her experience underscores the value of diverse perspectives in driving innovative solutions in mental health care. She is eager to explore potential joint research projects that could bridge the gap between institutions and strengthen mental health resources in both countries.
Reflecting on her journey, Alaa shared, “I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to my incredible mentor and professor in Egypt, Dr. Magda Fahmy. Her unwavering support made this opportunity and unforgettable experience possible. I also wish to express my deep gratitude to Dr. Cullen for her ongoing support and mentorship both before and during my time here. Thank you all for making this journey truly unforgettable!”
