Our Students and Young Researchers – The International Face of KazNU
The Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University continues to introduce its talented students and young researchers who contribute to science and proudly represent the university in the international academic community. Today, we would like to present three young researchers from China, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
🌐 Liu Jiaojiao (China)
In 2025, Liu Jiaojiao was admitted to the PhD program at KazNU. She was born in Suining, Sichuan Province. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in “Medical Testing” from Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and later earned her Master’s degree in Biology from Wenzhou Medical University.
During her Master’s studies, her research focused on prenatal diagnostics, particularly on using SNP microarray technologies to detect congenital heart defects. Since 2017, she has been working as a medical laboratory specialist at Suining Central Hospital, where she is involved in molecular pathogen diagnostics.
In 2023, she successfully obtained the Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certificate issued by the U.S. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Her scientific articles have been published in leading journals such as Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy, Molecular Cytogenetics, and Chinese Journal of Human Sexuality. Within her doctoral studies under the supervision of B.O. Bekmanov, she plans to conduct oncology research, applying artificial intelligence technologies to develop new diagnostic methods.
🌐 Asif Khan (Pakistan)
Originally from Bannu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. He graduated with distinction in Zoology from Bannu University of Science and Technology, with a GPA of 3.93/4.00, ranking second in the department.
His thesis focused on the molecular characterization of foodborne pathogens isolated from chicken meat vendors in the Bannu region. The results were entered into the international GenBank database (2023), including gene sequences of Lysinibacillus macroides and Bordetella hinzii.
Asif Khan has participated in various scientific programs and training sessions, including the Biosafety Training Workshop and a course on the development of the halal industry in Pakistan. Between 2023–2024, he taught at Islamia Science School in Bannu. Currently, he is pursuing his Master’s degree at KazNU, specializing in Molecular Biology and Genetics.
🌐 Jinnatun Nasa Anika (Bangladesh)
An undergraduate student in “Genetics” at KazNU (Class of 2027). She graduated from the prestigious Viqarunnisa Noon School and College in Bangladesh, ranking in the top 5% of her class and serving as Head Girl for two years.
In 2022, she became the winner of the National Science Quiz Championship. Her interest in genetics began with an award-winning project on Cystic Fibrosis Liver Disease. Currently, her academic interests include molecular genetics, microbiology, biotechnology, and bioinformatics.
Beyond her studies, she actively participates in social initiatives such as Project Konna, which aims to raise awareness about women’s health and hygiene among teenagers. She was awarded Best Delegate at a Model United Nations (MUN) conference. In addition, she is passionate about sports, painting, and creating video content.
Liu Jiaojiao (China), Asif Khan (Pakistan), and Jinnatun Nasa Anika (Bangladesh) are vivid representatives of the international profile of the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at KazNU. Their academic achievements and active civic engagement not only contribute to the advancement of science but also strengthen the university’s international reputation.
Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics
