Faces of YoungNAKO: Environment, health and the search for patterns

How does our environment affect our health? For Asmaa Alselwi, a doctoral student at Helmholtz Munich, this question is central. Her goal is to reveal complex relationships and derive possible courses of action from them. In this interview, she talks about what fascinates her about epidemiological research, how she came to YoungNAKO, and why good science should above all be understandable.

Interview with Asmaa Alselwi, PhD student at Helmholtz Munich – Institute of Epidemiology and participant in the YoungNAKO graduate programme.

How did you get into epidemiology?

I studied dentistry and later specialised in public health and epidemiology, which ultimately led me to my current focus, environmental epidemiology. During my early training in dentistry, I was fascinated by how much our environment affects us – often in ways we do not immediately notice. I became aware of how external factors can affect our development and even our appearance. At some point, my curiosity went beyond individual patients and I became increasingly interested in how the environment in which we live affects health on a larger scale – that is, in a large population group such as the NAKO.

What are you currently working on and why is NAKO important for your project?

I investigate how environmental factors – such as air pollution, temperature and greenness – are linked to cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. I am interested in how long-term exposure to individual or combined environmental factors affects disease and mortality risk. The NAKO data is essential for my work, as it allows me to link health information from a large population sample with detailed environmental information. Since many environmental effects are small but relevant, large, high-quality data sets are needed to reliably track them – which is exactly what NAKO offers.

What is particularly important to you in your work?

One of the most important aspects of my work is producing research that is not only scientifically rigorous but also clearly communicated. I strongly believe that research should be understandable and accessible — not only to researchers, but also to policymakers, healthcare providers, and the wider public. For me, impactful research is research that can be translated into meaningful information that supports decision-making and contributes to improving the environments and health of populations.

How did you find out about YoungNAKO – and what motivated you to join?

I became aware of the YoungNAKO programme through my doctoral thesis. A colleague introduced us to the YoungNAKO programme, and I immediately found that it perfectly matched my interests. I particularly appreciate the interdisciplinary and supportive environment. As an international researcher, YoungNAKO has helped me to better understand the German research landscape, to network and to use the NAKO data in a more targeted way.

Were there any special experiences in the YoungNAKO programme?

The practical part at the NAKO Study Centre in Augsburg was a highlight for me. I was able to experience how the medical examinations of the participants actually take place. This greatly increased my understanding of data collection. And I remember well the warm atmosphere at the centre – it showed me how important trust and team spirit are for the success of a study.

What advice would you give to young researchers?

Stay curious, be patient and be open to new ideas. Interdisciplinary research is challenging, but also immensely rewarding. And don’t be afraid to share your ideas – programmes such as YoungNAKO offer a network that actively promotes exchange and mutual support.