For many students, research means huge laboratories, expensive equipment, and incomprehensible scientific jargon. As a result, research seems like a far-off world, something with no direct connection to ordinary life. But according to Dr. Ashraful Uddin Ahmed, the beginning of research is not so distant. In his words, “In everyday life, research begins with the question ‘Why is this happening?’” This statement brings research closer to everyday experience.
Every day we observe countless events—why does food spoil so quickly? Why does a particular medicine work well for one person but less effectively for another? Why is the taste of water changing in some areas? These ‘why’ questions are actually the seeds of scientific curiosity. Research is not just a race toward major discoveries; it is about examining daily experiences closely and trying to uncover the reasons behind them. Throughout his long research career, Dr. Ashraful Uddin has followed this very approach.
The culture of asking questions is extremely important in science. Yet in our education system, students are often confined to rote memorization. Accepting textbook information without questioning it is seen as the path to success. As a result, curiosity gradually decreases among students. From Dr. Ashraful Uddin’s experience, those who advance in the laboratory are always, in some way, brave enough to question established ideas. When researching enzymes, he himself asked questions where everyone assumed an enzyme performed only a specific function; he asked, “Why can’t it work differently?” It is from such questions that new results emerge.
The ‘why’ question isn’t just a matter for the laboratory; it applies to social and environmental issues as well. Why is river water becoming polluted? Why is smoke increasing in city air? Why, despite higher yields, are farmers not getting fair prices? These questions help identify research priorities. Dr. Ashraful Uddin believes the research priorities of developing countries should focus on real local issues—water, food, health, and environment. Looking at practical problems alongside big theoretical questions is what keeps research connected to society.
This perspective is particularly important for young people. Many students hesitate to pursue research because they lack access to advanced equipment or foreign laboratories. Yet according to Dr. Ashraful Uddin, instruments are not the first step in research—thought is. If the habit of asking questions is developed, it is possible to begin inquiry in a small way even with limited resources. The mindset for research can be fostered in a school or college laboratory through observation, comparison, and analysis.
Most importantly, the question ‘Why is this happening?’ transforms us from mere spectators into active seekers. When we accept various social problems as just normal occurrences, we lose the chance for change. But when we ask questions, the door to change begins to open. Dr. Ashraful Uddin Ahmed’s philosophy teaches us that research is not only about adding new information; it is about seeing the world around us with new eyes.
Read Dr. Ashraful Uddin Ahmed’s full interview:
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