In this insightful conversation, we sit down with Nasrin Jabin, an exceptional scholar whose journey from the University of Dhaka to a globally recognized academic in the United States exemplifies resilience, vision, and purpose. A proud recipient of both the Dean’s Award (2017) and the Tajuddin Ahmad Peace Gold Medal, she has consistently exemplified excellence, humility, and purpose ; whether studying in Dhaka, authoring গবেষণা প্রারম্ভীকা to empower young researchers or now pursuing her PhD at Washington State University.
YSSE: Apu, first of all I would like to know about your childhood and education.
Nasrin Jabin: Thank you, Areeba. I was born and brought up in Dhaka. The family I was born was a blessed place for me. They nurtured the belief in me that education can transform and elevate life and I started believing in it from a very early age. Though I grew up with limited resources, supports were limitless. My mother taught me not to get confined only academic things. Life should not be a CV only. I paid heed to her lessons and started embracing diverse activities, such as participating in sports, painting, voluntary activities, etc. I am blessed that I had a carefree childhood. I also used to read fictions and non-fictions. I proudly say that I am a big fan of Humayun Ahmed and Ahmed Sofa and I have read every single book of them. The habit of reading books helped me raise questions about the layered realities of our society.
YSSE: We know that you were the President of Dhaka University Research Society (DURS) for two consecutive terms. How did your journey with DURS begin and how was the experience?
Nasrin Jabin: My journey with DURS actually began quite as an observer. I used to observe those who were connected with various clubs at our Dhaka University. I am someone who actually believes that research is not for the privileged crew, though it is portrayed in that way. However, my DU life shares a big part with DURS. This club was established on December 6, 2016, and I was involved from its earliest days. I started serving as a general member of this club, later joining the Executive Committee and serving as Research Manager as well. Recognizing my dedication, the Moderators, Fellows, and other executive members entrusted me with the role of President. I served DURS for two consecutive terms. I can remember those colorful and busy days.
During my tenure, our team organized what I believe was the 1st International Student Research Conference. This kind of conference was held in Bangladesh for the first time where undergraduate students were welcome to present their research ideas. To speak honestly, my goal was clear. I wanted to foster an undergraduate research culture in Bangladesh. Leading DURS was more than a leadership role. It was a commitment to empowering voices and inspiring changes. Today, it is rewarding to see bright minds continuing to work tirelessly toward a transformative future for our society.
YSSE: What sparked your interest in research?
Nasrin Jabin: Actually, my passion for research grew from field experiences. As a Dhaka University undergraduate student living at Mohammadpur, I used to pay frequent visit at the Geneva Camp (Bihari Refugee Camp) in Mohammadpur, Dhaka. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when everyone was bound to stay at home being paranoid, I saw them celebrating life without fear. My observation made me moved deeply by the community’s resilience despite multiple layers of exclusion, like being marginalized, urban poor, and financially deprived. I often used to talk with them and tried to understand their perspectives on ‘life’.
These encounters revealed how policies often fail to reflect real needs, leaving such voices unheard. I came to see research not merely as an academic pursuit but as a tool for social justice. It can document stories, expose barriers, and advocate for positive change.
YSSE: You have been awarded the most prestigious Dean’s Award (2017), The Tajuddin Ahmed Peace Gold Medal (2018), Women Empowerment Fellowship, Research Fellowship from the Ministry of Planning, and a few more awards. We would love to hear the story behind this and how it has motivated you to move forward.
Nasrin Jabin: Actually, there is no room for self-complacency as I have received awards and recognition. Each award represents countless hours of hard work, long nights, and a heart driven by purpose. While remembering these, I can say only that I ran myself with caffeine and chaos, which should not be. However, I am truly grateful that my efforts have been acknowledged. These awards have not only motivated me to continue but have also reinforced my commitment to peace and social change. I have never pursued my work for material gain; my focus has always been on self-enlightenment and making a meaningful contribution to society. The institutional scholarships, which often came with significant financial support, were especially helpful throughout my academic journey. Having benefited from such opportunities since childhood, I now aspire to establish a scholarship in my locality to support student with financial hardships.
YSSE: As one of the editors of the Research Methodology Book in Bangla ‘Gobeshona Praramvika’. Could you please share what inspired its creation and the driving force behind its message?
Nasrin Jabin: Actually, it is my brain child. I felt the necessity of having a book on ‘Introduction to Research Method’ in Bangla for the undergraduate students in Bangladesh. This book is a dream I carried for years. I was deeply involved in mentoring and volunteering in various research-based programs when I was a working as a Research Data Analyst at Dhaka University after my graduation. I constantly met brilliant minds and felt they lack basic guidance on how to begin their research journey. I, along with other authors and editors of this book, tried to bring it as a hand-note so that it talks with students’ language. I believe presenting something in an easier way is an art. The idea for this book emerged from my desire to create something that would open doors for those who feel that research is “not meant for us.” We are now working on its second edition and hope to publish it at the Amar Ekushey Boi Mela in February 2026.
It’s been a wonderful opportunity to hear how Nasrin’s early journey from earning top academic honors to launching গবেষণা প্রারম্ভীকা has shaped her path. In our next instalment, we will explore her PhD experiences, the hurdles she’s overcome and the exciting vision she’s building for the future. Stay tuned for Part 2!
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Writer,
Areeba Ibnat Mamun
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE