Dr. Mariam Mansouri is graduating today with a PhD from Queen’s University Belfast, having shown extraordinary resilience by completing her studies while undergoing cancer treatment. Her story is one of determination, and a deep commitment to improving public health. 

A medical doctor from Kuwait, Mariam came to Belfast in 2019 to pursue a PhD related to her work in communicable disease preparedness and response at Kuwait’s Public Health Directorate. By then, she had already established herself as a national focal person for communicable disease response and was one of 22 global experts on Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). 

Her PhD journey took an unexpected turn when, during her final year, she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. Despite the challenges, Mariam chose to stay in Belfast, focus on her treatment, and finish her research. 

Her experience at Queen’s played a vital role in her journey: 

“The kindness and understanding of the people at Queen’s were incredible. From my supervisors to my friends, everyone supported me – some even came with me to medical follow-ups. Their encouragement kept me going.” 

Mariam’s resilience in the face of this challenge was rooted in her personal history. Having lost both her parents to cancer at a young age, she became the caregiver for her younger siblings – a role that inspired her to persevere through even the most difficult times. 

Reflecting on her diagnosis during the final year of her PhD, she said: 

“I was advised to take a break, but I decided to keep going. Being far from home and my family made it hard, but working on my PhD gave me purpose. On days when the treatment was harsh, I reminded myself I was doing this for my siblings, to show them I was fighting and that I would win.” 

After completing her PhD and overcoming her illness, Mariam returned to Kuwait to continue her career in public health. Reflecting on her work since then, she noted: 

“My degree and experience at Queen’s helped me become fit for being the Head of Public Health Emergency Operations at the Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control. The tools and skills I learned during my PhD – statistical analysis, stakeholder engagement, leadership, have been invaluable.” 

Today, as she graduates from Queen’s, Mariam carries the lessons she has learned with her: 

“Cancer took my parents too young, and I wouldn’t allow it to take me. Finishing my PhD was my way of giving my siblings hope and showing them that even in the toughest circumstances, you can overcome.” 

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