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Once a discipline dominated by men, neuroscience is seeing a radical change as more and more women scientists are making their mark in the study of the nervous system and the brain. Women working in the field of neuroscience are making significant contributions to our understanding of the most complicated organ in the human body, from finding new information about diseases to creating cutting-edge treatments for neurological ailments. Hanna Aliashkevich, a female neuroscientist, has made significant contributions to the field by challenging stereotypes, and inspiring a new generation of researchers. Dr.Aliashkevich began her education and professional career in Minsk, Belarus, where she has carved a niche for herself in the field of neurosurgery, pioneering research for innovative treatments and challenging the status quo in a field where young women are seldom seen taking the lead.
Her work on high-grade glioma antiviral treatment has opened new pathways in neuro-oncology that were previously unexplored. Presenting her findings at the esteemed Young Neurosurgeons Meeting in Oxford, United Kingdom, in 2018, she shed light on how inflammation in glial brain tumors, when contaminated by the Herpes Simplex Virus, accelerates tumor cell proliferation. This finding offers hope for creating more potent treatments in addition to marking a substantial advancement in our understanding of brain cancer. Important results from her research demonstrated a significant increase in the five-year survival rate for patients with glioblastoma.
Her contributions extend beyond her own research, inspiring other professionals to build upon her work and innovate new solutions. Dr. Aliashkevich has already made her mark as the first author in several esteemed publications, including the Medical News Journal and Neurology and Neurosurgery Eastern Europe International Scientific Journal. In 2021, The Journal of Clinical Neuroscience recognized Dr. Aliashkevich as a contributor within the framework of their report ‘European Women in Neurosurgery.’ This is a big achievement for anyone involved in medicine and medical research, and especially for young professionals.
Her peers in the medical community hold her in high regard for her significant and original research in neuroscience. Dr. Nicolas Sampron, a specialist in neurosurgery and the Chair of the 8th EANS Annual Young Neurosurgeons meeting joint with the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies Young Neurosurgeons Forum, attests that Dr. Aliashkevich’s work is truly a breakthrough for neuroscientists and those who are working on treatments and therapy options. “Dr. Aliashkevich ’s work and contribution is a breakthrough, and really helps us understand the role of HSV in glial brain tumors. There is ongoing research for therapies, and Dr. Aliashkevich has shown us that using antiviral therapy can be beneficial for the patient.”
Dr. Aliashkevich’s commitment to advancing the field of brain cancer research is unwavering. “I chose this career at a young age, because neurosurgery is something I can make a difference in. In the future I hope to further contribute my expertise to facilitate research for treatments for brain cancer, particularly high-grade gliomas, and improve patient outcomes and quality of life,” she states. Of course during the course of her career, Hanna put in countless hours of work to see these achievements come to life. “This profession is never without sacrifice. I remember that in the very beginning I would limit my time with friends and family, as I was studying a lot. Being one of the few women at my first job, I knew I had to put in the extra work if I wanted this to work out,” says Hanna. Now, with a decade of experience, Dr. Aliashkevich brings her expertise to R3 Biotechnologies, a company at the forefront of brain research. Her past contributions and knowledge are set to propel the development of new treatment options. Her work is considered among the most progressive by young professionals in the field. Besides neuro-oncology, she has delved into spine neurosurgery, facial paralysis surgery, and reconstructive neurosurgery.
Today, Hanna Aliashkevich has been selected as a finalist in the Women in Science and People’s Choice Global Impact categories for the 2024 Women Changing the World Awards. The Women Changing the World Awards presented by Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York and Oprah Winfrey’s all-time favorite guest, Dr. Tererai Trent, celebrates and recognizes women achieving outstanding success in areas such as sustainability, humanitarian work, leadership, advocacy, tech, product development, education, health and innovation.
“I have a firm belief that professional associations are an integral part of a successful career and I am proud to be a member of the Association for Women in Science (AWIS) and Women in Neurosurgery (WINS),” says Anna.In 2024, Hanna Aliashkevich was also nominated for the AWIS National Governing Board of Directors. The Association for Women in Science was established in 1971 and is recognized as the leading organization that advocates on behalf of women in STEM to achieve business growth, social change, and innovation. Being nominated with AWIS is another big win for Dr. Aliashkevich. “I do take pride in being among the nominees, as I really do see women paving the way for other women, and I am grateful to be a part of this, especially knowing how important this is in the medical community.” As we celebrate the achievements of women in the medical field, we also explore the ongoing efforts to promote gender equality and inclusivity in the scientific community, ensuring that the future of neuroscience is shaped by the brightest minds, regardless of gender.
