As a Global PhD Fellow in Chemistry, Thowfik Salam is pursuing his passion for building molecules, characterizing them, and exploring their potential applications across diverse fields from medicines to smart materials.
Hailing from India, Salam brings a strong background in organic synthesis to NYU Abu Dhabi. Prior to joining the University, he completed a Master’s in Chemistry at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, focusing on developing new methodologies and designing small molecules.
Drawn to NYUAD for its global and research-driven environment, Salam cites the University’s state-of-the-art campus, funding opportunities, and the ability to earn an NYU degree while spending time in New York as key factors in his decision.
Aiming to leverage the University’s advanced instrumentation facilities to strengthen his expertise in organic synthesis while contributing to interdisciplinary research projects, Salam hopes the experience will serve as a springboard to a career in pharmaceutical research and development or advanced academic research.
As all global PhD fellows spend their first year in New York, Salam reflected on his time in the Big Apple. To be part of a vibrant city and a global academic network was both academically stimulating and personally inspiring for Salam.
Now in Abu Dhabi, he is eager to immerse himself in the city’s cultural heritage and embrace the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines the NYUAD campus experience.
