A Scientist, Writer, and Advocate for Creative Living.
Dr. Nora Rashed AlSenan is a distinguished medical geneticist from the Kingdom of Bahrain. With over 16 years of experience in the government sector, Dr. Rashed currently serves as the Head of the Lab.
Beyond her professional success, she’s a devoted mother of two and an accomplished author. Her debut book, “Those Looks,” published in 2022, explores various facets of life, emphasizing hope and love.
Dr. Rashed holds a Ph.D. in molecular medicine, specializing in medical genetics, and her future plans include writing science reference books, an Arabic novel, and hosting a podcast.
In her free time, she enjoys gaming, travel, and mindfulness. Her life motto is “Carpe Diem, SEIZE YOUR DAY!” Dr. Nora Rashed encourages us all to “be strong, be who you are, and fight for your identity.” We are honored to have her with us today, inspiring our readers with her passion for science and creativity.
Tell us something about yourself. Who is Dr. Nora Rashed as a person? What are her likes and dislikes?
My name is Noora Rashed AlSenan, I am 37 years old from the Kingdom of Bahrain. I am a doctor in medical genetics. I have been working in the Government sector for over 16 years. I have two kids, the eldest is Amina (12 years) and youngest is Khalifa (10 years). My everyday routine is going to work, exercising in gym and spending some time with my kids. At night I start writing science books or literature books. I like traveling a lot to see new cultures.
Tell us about your education.
I have studied BSc. in science specializing in molecular biology and my minor in biochemistry from Kuwait university. I had the highest GPA in the college of Science in 2007-2008. I have completed MSc. in medical biotechnology from Arabian Gulf University in 2012. My thesis was about studying recombinant proteins produced in yeast Pichia Pastoris. My PhD was in molecular medicine specializing in medical genetics which I have completed in Arabian Gulf University since 2019 with GPA of four out of four.
What do you do in your professional sphere?
I have been working in the government sector for 16 years as a science researcher. Currently I am the head of the lab.
When and how did you get interested in writing?
I started reading books in English and Arabic since an early age. I was very fond of reading as I was a very imaginative child. I grew up with being the only girl between 5 male siblings made me have different interests which I didn’t have anyone to share with. So, I started to dive into my own world of reading. When I was twelve years old, I started writing short stories in English and Arabic. First, I used to write novels about wars and magic. Then when I grew up, my writing changed from non-fiction to more realistic writing about life.
What is your favourite genre for writing?
I like to read and write books about life, journey of life, motivational writing. Also, I am fond of writing about science and research books.
When did you publish your first book and what was it about?
In 2022, I have published my first Arabic book which has the title of “Those Looks”. I have defined life with different chapters. Each chapter is about some kind of look; look of love, sad, hatred, jealousy, sexual assault, and many looks. The first communication between two people starts with a look. So, my book is a motivational book to spread hope and love even in your darkest times.
Where do you get inspiration for writing?
I am inspired to write from reading a lot of books and after working out at the gym. I have many creative ideas to write about whether they are in science field or literature. My imaginative mind is filled with passion for writing and diving into the world of possibilities.
Many authors draw inspiration from real-life experiences. Are there any personal anecdotes or events that influenced your writing or the themes in your books?
Some of real-life experiences have influenced me into writing. Such as when I wrote my “Those looks” book in Arabic. I was so filled with memories and lessons learned from life that I was eager to write about and spread to others. I am happy that every day I am getting feedback from readers who have understood the morale of my books and how it did change their lives into better.
Can you tell us about your writing process? Do you have any specific routines or rituals that help you get into the writing zone?
I usually write at night when I am done with all my work and motherhood duties. Most of the time I go to a cafe where I can enjoy my latte while writing or reading. I seldom write at home. Sometimes I write while listening to music and lighting a candle.
Are you a reader yourself? If so, which are some of your favorite books?
I enjoy reading a lot and most of the time I am inspired to write after reading a book. I have many different favorites authors. My all-time favorites are Virginia Andrews and Agatha Christie books. Also, Dan brown and Sophie Kinsella. I have different Arabic Authors as well.
What are your future plans? What would you like to achieve?
My future plans are to author many science books which can be used as references for colleges and laboratories. Also, I am planning on writing my first Arabic novel which is based on science. Also, I am planning on having my own podcast show where I will give some interesting aspects in molecular medicine, genetics, and science.
What are some of your other hobbies?
Besides reading and writing, I like to play PS4 and PC games. I used to be a gamer along with my other siblings. I stay play once a month along with my kid and I enjoy watching my son and brothers playing some RPG games together.
How do you unwind from your busy routine?
I take a shower, enjoy a cup of latte, and listen to music or any random FM radio. I like to stay away from social media and practice mindfulness.
What does travelling mean to you? How many countries have you travelled to?
Traveling always opens new horizons of doors for me when I am lost in the maze of life. I enjoy learning about new cultures and historical sites. I have traveled to most of middle east and North Africa countries, Europe, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, and USA.
What is your favorite travel destination and why?
I don’t have one. I love watching the sunsets in the beaches of Thailand as well as the historical forts and arenas in Spain and Italy.
Your motto in life?
Carpe Diem, SIEZE YOUR DAY!
What is your favorite quote(s)?
Be strong, be who you are and fight for your identity, fight for who you really are.
Make yourself proud!
Your message for us at CP magazine.
Thank you for having me today. I hope and wish to inspire people to chase their dreams and be creative!
