Hanna Aliashkevich, MD

What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Leadership is not just about holding a position of power but about inspiring and guiding others towards a common goal. It requires empathy, vision, and the ability to motivate and engage. This is why developing of emotional intelligence is crucial for a leader.

What do you consider to be your most important career achievement or milestone?

With my background and achievements I was approved for O1-A visa in the United States. This visa is designated for individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences. I’m so proud for this recognition.

What do you aspire to accomplish in your career and why? What obstacles will you overcome?

I aim to pioneer treatments for neuro-oncological disorders, by leveraging emerging technologies. Facing challenges like funding and the complexity of brain research, I’ll focus on multidisciplinary collaboration and continuous learning to develop personalized medicine.

Describe an amazing opportunity in your STEM career.

The approval of my O1-A visa in the United States opened a new door in my career. I received access to great resourses, technologies and possibilities to fulfill my biggest scientific ambitions.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

I believe in the power of communities and women’s empowerment. With the right surroundings, we can move forward much faster. Being a part of AWIS helps promote synergy, allowing me to be inspired and to inspire others.

What is your favorite word? (only one word)

Freedom

How do you define it?

Freedom represents autonomy, choice, and opportunity. It embodies the essence of human existence and inspires growth and progress.

How has this word influenced or inspired your career?

Freedom fuels curiosity, driving scientists to explore uncharted territories and challenge conventions. This pursuit of novelty pushes the boundaries of knowledge.

How does AWIS impact your career journey?

AWIS offers support, mentorship, and networking opportunities vital for career growth. It fosters empowerment, inspiration, and collaboration among women in STEM.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

The Leader’s Brain by Michael L. Platt, Power by Jeffrey Pfeffer, Brain-Mind Machinery by Gee-Wah Ng

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

The best advice I’ve received is to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. It’s taught me resilience, perseverance, and the importance of learning from setbacks.

Hanna Aliashkevich, MD, is a neuroscientist and neurosurgeon with a decade of expertise spanning clinical and research domains, including neuro-oncology, reconstructive and spine neurosurgery. As a renowned neurosurgeon in Eastern Europe and nationally recognized scientist, she contributed to pioneering research about antiviral treatment for glial brain tumors. In 2022 she was awarded participation in the neurosurgical program by American Association of Neurosurgical Societies. In 2023 she received an O1-A visa in the United States.