Raania
Oct 4, 2025
Letters / RNA biology - phd position in germany motivation letter [3]
Merged:
Dear Selection Committee,
In 2010, an Airblue plane crashed near my hometown in Islamabad. I remember hearing that the victims could only be identified through DNA. At school, I had just learned that all humans share the same DNA, and I could not understand how scientists could tell one person from another. That single question stayed with me and first sparked my fascination with genetics. A decade later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I saw how molecular differences, small changes invisible to the eye could decide whether someone recovered quickly or struggled with severe disease. These moments, one very close to home and the other shared by the entire world, shaped my decision to explore how tiny molecular marks on DNA and RNA influence health and disease.
During my Master's in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (GPA 3.89/4.0), I focused on one such modification, m6A RNA methylation, which is known to shape immune responses. I studied single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter region of KIAA1429, a key m6A writer gene, to see how they might influence COVID-19 severity. To explore this, I combined computational tools with lab work: genome browsers, motif analysis, DNA extraction, ARMS-PCR, and gel electrophoresis. My first PCR attempts failed, which was frustrating, but troubleshooting taught me that the issue lay in DNA quality rather than primer design. By refining the extraction protocol, I achieved reliable results. This experience gave me more than data. It showed me that science requires patience, persistence, and the courage to question every step. Along the way, I also built skills in GraphPad Prism, SPSS, and I am now learning R to extend my analysis into bioinformatics.
Beyond research, I worked as a lecturer at Women University Swabi, Pakistan. I was recognized for promoting higher education in my Swabi district. Teaching and collaborating with colleagues across departments strengthened my ability to communicate science clearly and manage responsibilities under pressure. I also co-authored two research articles, which sharpened my writing and teamwork skills.
What excites me most about the IMPRS-ML is its collaborative and international environment, where experimental biology and computational approaches come together. I want to contribute my laboratory experience, growing computational skills, and teaching background to this community, while learning from researchers who are pushing the boundaries of RNA biology and epigenetics. My long-term goal is to develop RNA-based therapeutic strategies, bridging fundamental research with practical applications. I believe IMPRS-ML offers the ideal environment to shape me into an independent researcher capable of making this transition.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the IMPRS-ML community.
Merged:
im applying for PhD at IMPRS Germany. do a critical analysis of Motivation letter for me.
Dear Selection Committee,
In 2010, an Airblue plane crashed near my hometown in Islamabad. I remember hearing that the victims could only be identified through DNA. At school, I had just learned that all humans share the same DNA, and I could not understand how scientists could tell one person from another. That single question stayed with me and first sparked my fascination with genetics. A decade later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I saw how molecular differences, small changes invisible to the eye could decide whether someone recovered quickly or struggled with severe disease. These moments, one very close to home and the other shared by the entire world, shaped my decision to explore how tiny molecular marks on DNA and RNA influence health and disease.
During my Master's in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (GPA 3.89/4.0), I focused on one such modification, m6A RNA methylation, which is known to shape immune responses. I studied single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter region of KIAA1429, a key m6A writer gene, to see how they might influence COVID-19 severity. To explore this, I combined computational tools with lab work: genome browsers, motif analysis, DNA extraction, ARMS-PCR, and gel electrophoresis. My first PCR attempts failed, which was frustrating, but troubleshooting taught me that the issue lay in DNA quality rather than primer design. By refining the extraction protocol, I achieved reliable results. This experience gave me more than data. It showed me that science requires patience, persistence, and the courage to question every step. Along the way, I also built skills in GraphPad Prism, SPSS, and I am now learning R to extend my analysis into bioinformatics.
Beyond research, I worked as a lecturer at Women University Swabi, Pakistan. I was recognized for promoting higher education in my Swabi district. Teaching and collaborating with colleagues across departments strengthened my ability to communicate science clearly and manage responsibilities under pressure. I also co-authored two research articles, which sharpened my writing and teamwork skills.
What excites me most about the IMPRS-ML is its collaborative and international environment, where experimental biology and computational approaches come together. I want to contribute my laboratory experience, growing computational skills, and teaching background to this community, while learning from researchers who are pushing the boundaries of RNA biology and epigenetics. My long-term goal is to develop RNA-based therapeutic strategies, bridging fundamental research with practical applications. I believe IMPRS-ML offers the ideal environment to shape me into an independent researcher capable of making this transition.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to and grow within the IMPRS-ML community.
