Mekdes Shewangzaw Eshete

I am a medical doctor from Ethiopia and currently a second-year Master’s student in Neuroscience at the University of Pisa, Italy. I obtained my Doctor of Medicine degree from Mekelle University College of Health Sciences, where I developed a strong foundation in clinical medicine and patient care. After graduation, I worked as a General Practitioner in both primary and hospital settings, including Gunchire Primary Hospital and Kadisco General Hospital. In these roles, I was actively involved in patient management, disease prevention programs, and emergency care, as well as public health initiatives such as COVID-19 response and community health education.

I later joined the Internal Medicine residency program at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College in Addis Ababa, where I gained further experience in diagnosing and managing complex medical conditions, including neurological disorders. My clinical exposure, particularly to patients with neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, played a key role in shaping my interest in neuroscience and motivated me to pursue a research-oriented career path.
To deepen my understanding of the biological and epidemiological aspects of neurological diseases, I transitioned from clinical practice to research by enrolling in a Master’s program in Neuroscience at the University of Pisa. Through my current studies, I am developing skills in neuroscience research, data analysis, and evidence-based approaches to studying brain disorders. I am particularly interested in neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia, with the long-term goal of contributing to improved early detection, prevention strategies, and patient outcomes.
Alongside my academic and clinical work, I have remained committed to professional development and scientific engagement. I am a member of several international scientific communities, including A
Cochrane Supporter, and World Women in Neuroscience. I have also been actively involved in volunteer activities, including regular blood donation through the Ethiopian Red Cross Society.
During my clinical career, I was honored with an Award of Excellence and Dedication in recognition of my commitment and contributions to patient care. I value teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication, and I have experience working in multidisciplinary and multicultural environments. As a woman from Ethiopia pursuing a career in neuroscience research, I am committed to advancing brain health research and contributing to greater representation and opportunities for women in science.