Celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science with…
Gulbahar Mammetgurbanova
BSc Global Resource Systems 2026
What excites you about science?
One thing that excites me about science is its ability to answer questions while simultaneously raising even more. It’s a never-ending cycle of curiosity and discovery that continually pushes boundaries. Science not only helps us understand how things work, both in the present and the past, but also equips us with the tools to predict how they might function in the future. What fascinates me even more is how science connects humanity, uniting us in the pursuit of knowledge and a shared understanding of the world.
Take the appendix, for example. When I first learned about it, I was told it was a vestigial organ with no real purpose in our bodies anymore and would soon disappear. Yet, as research evolves, and as numerous scientists collaborate across disciplines, building on each other’s work, new insights suggest it might play a role in maintaining gut health or supporting the immune system. Science, like any other discipline, thrives on collaboration, and we need each other to push forward. This constant questioning, investigating, and collaboration keeps me engaged, knowing that there is always more to learn and discover.
When did you realize science was for you?
I’ve been fascinated by science for as long as I can remember. As a child, I loved astronomy. I carried around an astronomy book my aunt gifted me everywhere I went. Over time, my curiosity expanded to math, environmental science, and later, physiology and pathology.
When I started at UBC, I wanted to merge my two biggest interests—math and physiology—by pursuing Biomedical Engineering. However, I realized I wanted a field that would allow me to engage more directly with people while still applying scientific and analytical thinking. I wanted a path that would allow me to bridge science with human connection, where I could apply my scientific knowledge in ways that directly benefit individuals and communities. That’s when I was introduced to the Global Resource Systems (GRS) program by Zahra Fazal, an accomplished GRS alumna.
Now, through GRS, I can integrate my love for science with my desire to engage with individuals and communities, allowing me to apply scientific knowledge to real-world health challenges. I have the opportunity to study a wide range of fascinating subjects, from microbiology to political science to statistics—each of which helps shape my understanding and analysis of health and the world around me.
Who is your role model?
My role model is my older sister. She is the person you imagine when someone says a strong, independent woman. From a young age, she has been an inspiration to me, teaching me the values of tenacity, resilience, and kindness, while constantly challenging me to push my boundaries. Despite the eight-year age gap, she has mentored me throughout my journey, guiding me with her abundant experience that mirrors my own. Her confidence, leadership, and eloquence inspire me daily, and they drive me to become a stronger, more resourceful version of myself, and to make a positive impact on others’ lives.
Tagged with: 2025, Equity Diversity Inclusion and Indigeneity, Global Resource Systems, Undergraduate, Women and Girls in Science