September 15-19, 2025, is National Postdoc Appreciation Week. Since 2009, the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) has sponsored this annual celebration to recognize the significant contributions that postdoctoral scholars make to research and scientific discovery. Check out the NPA website to view the virtual and in-person events being held this week. 

This week, BPS will be highlighting postdoc members on the blog. Today, read about Mayar Mohamed, University of Texas at Austin.

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Background & Inspiration 

1. Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to your current postdoc position? 

I am currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at The University of Texas at Austin in the Biomedical Engineering Department, working under the supervision of Prof. Pengyu Ren. I was drawn to the Biomolecular Modeling Lab because of their pioneering work on polarizable forcefield development and molecular simulations, which align closely with my passion for computational chemistry and its applications in drug discovery.

2. What inspired you to pursue research in your field? 

During my undergraduate studies at Zewail City in Egypt, I was introduced to computational chemistry by Dr. Ahmed Taha Ayoub. Exploring molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations was incredibly exciting, as I saw how these methods could transform drug discovery—improving success rates in clinical trials and deepening our understanding of drug mechanisms at the molecular level. That early inspiration still drives me today. 

Daily Work & Routine 

3. What does a typical day look like for you as a postdoc? 

My mornings usually start with the busy routine of being a mother of two—packing lunches, school drop-offs, and then heading with my husband (also at UT Austin) to campus. Once in the lab, I begin by reviewing my weekly to-do list and running simulations or calculations that require the most focus in the morning. Afternoons are often spent on writing, catching up on emails, and meetings. After family time in the evening, I usually dedicate another hour to work before ending the day.

4. Do you have a favorite part of your daily routine—or a task you look forward to most? 

I really enjoy the scientific discussions with colleagues, not only within our lab but across the entire Biomedical Engineering Department. UT Austin fosters a uniquely collaborative environment where computational scientists and experimentalists work closely together, and I am grateful to be part of that community.

5. What’s one part of your day that people might find surprising or unexpected? 

Outside the lab, I love exploring new places and hiking. Even with kids, I try to make time for nature walks and enjoy Austin’s beautiful outdoor scenery whenever possible. 

Research & Impact 

6. Can you briefly describe your research project and why it matters? 

My current work uses molecular dynamics simulations to study fundamental biological processes and protein conformational transitions. These insights are essential for understanding disease mechanisms and for designing more effective therapeutic strategies.

7. What’s the most exciting discovery or moment you’ve had during your postdoc so far? 

A highlight has been collaborating with experimentalists (Sajjad Norouzi) in Dr. Sapun’s lab to study how cyclic loading affects fibrin fibers involved in stroke. Using non-equilibrium pulling simulations to uncover molecular-level mechanisms was both challenging and deeply rewarding.

Personal Touch 

8. How do you balance life in the lab with life outside of it? 

Balancing research with family life can be challenging, but I make an effort to maintain weekly social connections and friendships. My family keeps me grounded, and spending time with them helps me recharge.

9. What hobbies or activities help you recharge after work? 

I enjoy taking my kids to the park, library, or playground. These simple moments help me reset and keep a healthy perspective.

10. Any fun lab quirks? 

When I need a little boost, I treat myself to Shawarma from a nearby Mediterranean restaurant. Somehow, after that meal, everything feels more manageable! 

Advice & Future 

11. What advice would you give to someone just starting a postdoc? 

In my experience, a postdoc is more enjoyable than graduate studies—you have more independence to pursue research projects that truly interest you and fewer distractions from coursework. My advice is to embrace this freedom, collaborate widely, and use this time to shape your research identity.

12. Where do you see yourself heading next in your career? 

With the evolving landscape of academia and funding challenges, I am carefully considering the next steps. As an international scholar and a mother, I weigh opportunities not only for professional growth but also for how they will support my family’s future. I am open to both academic and industry paths that allow me to continue making meaningful contributions to science.