A journey across three countries
My life outside research has been shaped by the places I have called home — the cricket grounds of Pakistan, a brief but formative chapter in Poland, and the outdoor life of northern Sweden.
Pakistan — where it began
Poland — a formative chapter
Sweden — home today
Following Arsenal
Football found me late. Growing up in Pakistan, my sport was cricket — but after moving to Europe, my younger brother pulled me into the English game as a way to unwind from the pressures of PhD life. I followed him to Arsenal, and what began as a distraction has become one of my great weekend joys: the tension of a tight match, the rhythm of a season, and the shared highs and lows that come with supporting a club.
The wait for silverware taught its own kind of patience — and in 2025/26 it was finally rewarded.
Staying active
Outside of football, I like to keep moving. I cycle around Umeå whenever the weather allows, spend regular time at the gym to stay fit and clear my head, and — above all — treasure time outdoors with my family and children. I have found that physical activity and time away from the screen are where my best research ideas quietly take shape.
Downtime
When I do slow down, I enjoy a good film or series — from Bollywood to Hollywood — and the occasional long, unhurried conversation over coffee. Balance, I have learned, is not a distraction from research; it is part of doing it well.