Waseem Raza, an associate professor at Nanjing Agricultural University, delivers a speech at an event for international students in Jiangsu. [Photo/Nanjing Agricultural University]

Waseem Raza, an associate professor of Nanjing Agricultural University, recently shared his inspiring story of arriving in China from Pakistan 20 years ago and becoming a member of the NAU community.

"When I first arrived, I was filled with uncertainty about the future, but the warm welcome from the university staff at the airport immediately put me at ease," Raza recalled. His early days at NAU were marked by the kindness of teachers and students, who helped him adjust to his new life in Nanjing.

That same year, Pakistan was struck by a devastating 7.6 magnitude earthquake, prompting deep concern from Raza for his home country. He was touched by the swift organization of donations by the NAU community to aid the disaster-stricken region, a gesture of solidarity that he continues to hold in high regard.

Throughout his doctoral studies under the guidance of Professor Shen Qirong, Raza made significant progress in antifungal compound research, earning accolades for both himself and NAU while fostering international academic collaboration. "I was deeply moved by the academic environment here," he remarked, crediting his mentor's role in shaping his comprehension of a scientist's obligations.

In 2010, Raza joined the faculty at NAU and was promoted to associate professor in 2012. He has since continued his groundbreaking research in soil and microbiology while passing on his knowledge and experiences to the next generation of students.