Ms. Sania Sultana is a PhD candidate at National Brain Research Centre, Haryana. Her doctoral research focuses on understanding the mechanisms driving locomotion deficits in genetic models of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) across different stages of development. Using molecular, electrophysiological, and behavioral approaches, she studies how altered neuronal translation disrupts cortico-striatal circuitry and contributes to motor dysfunction in ASD. Her work also explores sex-specific differences in ASD models, an area that remains underexplored in neuroscience research.
Sania completed her bachelor’s and master’s in life sciences from Presidency University, Kolkata. During her master’s research, she investigated how exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields from mobile phones affect neural development and behavior. The observed hyperactivity and cognitive impairments in mice deepened her interest in developmental brain disorders and motivated her to pursue research in ASD.
As a Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellow, Sania will study how long non-coding RNAs regulate inhibitory synapses in the striatum of ASD models. Her proposed work aims to uncover convergent mechanisms underlying circuit dysfunction across genetically distinct autism models and contribute to improved strategies for early diagnosis and intervention. Beyond her academic work, Sania enjoys exploring regional ecology, cuisine, and cultural traditions.