UAE: Teen prodigy launches astrophysics book exploring black hole theory
Her journey began with an open letter about the UAE Hope Probe, which led to a meeting with Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, and inspired her to write Astrophysics for Young Minds, a book that she unveiled at the Emirates Literature Festival (ELF) on Thursday.
Speaking to Khaleej Times about her writing journey, Oindrila Majumdar said, 'When I had the discussion with Sarah Al Ameri, I found myself reflecting on the work of other astronomers and delving deeper into areas of astronomy I wasn't familiar with, particularly the theoretical complexities. This led me to conduct my own research, and that's when I decided to write a book – one that would consolidate my knowledge.'
An avid reader, her goal was simple – to inspire young, budding astronomers who share the same curiosity as she did.
'I wanted to make these complex theories accessible, breaking them down into simple terms, with guidance from my father who is a mathematician and other astrophysicists. One of my favourite chapters is the last one, 'The Theory of Everything,' where I've broken down the most significant theories in astronomy. There are so many intriguing ideas, such as wave-particle duality, where light is both a wave and a particle, but many don't realise how this groundbreaking discovery was made. It's that kind of curiosity and exploration that I aim to share,' added the 14-year-old.
Writing journey
The young Indian expat started by diving into various resources like lectures, videos, and textbooks – even though some concepts were hard to grasp at first. She explained that over time, she built a foundation in fundamental topics, carefully researching and reading books on astrophysics that her father provided.
'In the second year, I began constructing my own book, but experienced some self-doubt and a bit of writer's block, unsure if my understanding was accurate. To overcome this, my dad connected me with an experienced astrophysicist who helped me refine my writing, ensuring any technical aspects were corrected.'
The student of Dubai International Academy (DIA) Al Barsha reiterated that her inspiration from the Mars Hope Probe is also reflected in her book.
'I was also honoured to receive an endorsement from Her Excellency for my book, which I truly appreciated. This has been a huge source of encouragement and a significant journey for me, especially since it's my very first book,' said the emerging author, whose 110-page book is now available on Amazon.
Oindrila also regularly collaborates with scientists from Princeton, CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique), and NASA on video columns to ignite young audiences' interest in science and astronomy.
Black holes, future of astrophysics
A keynote speaker at XPANSE 2024 last year, she captivated the audience with her insights into black holes and the future of astrophysics, becoming one of the youngest voices in the field.
'To my surprise, because of my YouTube Podcasts, I was invited to speak at the event, becoming the youngest person on stage, surrounded by Nobel laureates and scientists. Initially, it was nerve-racking because it was my first time on a real stage. My mother helped me with how to talk and walk around the stage. My parents really helped me practise my presentation at home. Eventually, I watched a video about Einstein and Pythagoras which further inspired my choice of topic: the mystery of black holes.'
Shedding light on her interaction with Dr Sean Carroll there, one of the most celebrated cosmologists, whose influence had always fuelled her passion for the subject, she added, 'I gathered my courage and went up to him and I told him about my interests. He is an amazing communicator blending Physics and Philosophy really well.'
Determined to spread her knowledge and raise awareness about the universe, she dedicated herself to sharing insights that could spark curiosity.
Later, she met Dr Ayeha Miran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), who invited her to her office. There, she shared her book, which earned her representation at the prestigious Emirates Literature Festival.
'Dr Miran is a very inspiring lady. She asked me several questions. I also want to translate my book into Arabic soon and hope that this book sparks an interest in others about the infinite cosmos and its mysteries.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
2 days ago
- Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi biobank completes step to help UAE patients get local cell transplants for diseases
The Abu Dhabi Biobank has just completed a crucial process that brings the UAE one step closer to providing stem cell transplants using samples stored right here in the country. While it may sound technical, the goal is clear — to help people in the UAE get lifesaving treatments faster, without relying on overseas donors. Stem cell transplants are one of the most advanced treatments available for conditions like leukemia, lymphoma, and some rare immune disorders. But in order for a transplant to work, doctors need to find a close genetic match between the patient and a donor — something that's especially challenging in countries with limited donor registries. 'The most recent major milestone is the HLA typing of all the stem cell samples that we've banked,' said Paul Downey, General Manager of the Abu Dhabi Biobank, in an interview with Khaleej Times. 'That means that we can now match them between the donor and patients in need of stem cell therapy,' he explained. 'We've literally just finished the HLA typing; we hope in 2025 we will see a local transplantation.' HLA typing, short for human leukocyte antigen typing, is a process used to identify specific genetic markers on white blood cells that help the immune system distinguish between the body's own cells and foreign ones. This is especially important for stem cell and organ transplants, because a close HLA match between donor and patient greatly reduces the risk of the body rejecting the transplanted cells. Without proper matching, even a potentially life-saving transplant can fail. By completing HLA typing of its stored stem cell samples, the Abu Dhabi Biobank has made it possible to begin searching for suitable matches for patients within the country for the first time. New approach to UAE health 'One of the key things that we want to do is to address the health issues that affect the UAE and Abu Dhabi,' Downey noted. 'So, we're targeting the chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular [disease], as well as looking at healthy cohorts — understanding how people are living their lives in Abu Dhabi and what that does to their health.' What people eat, and the exercise they do, along with factors they don't choose like the air they breathe, the water they drink, and to some extent the jobs they do, all play a part, and early detection is vital. 'Biobanks are powered by numbers,' he explained. 'So, the more participants that you can combine in your dataset, the greater the power of the research resource. So, we'd look to network with other local biobanks and international biobanks.' Similar efforts are already underway in countries like the UK and Qatar, where national biobanks have helped identify new disease risk factors, develop targeted treatments, and refine health policy based on genetic and environmental data. This comes at a time when chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes and cancer continue to affect many across the country. Non-communicable diseases — many of them potentially treatable or manageable with early interventions, account for nearly 77 per cent of deaths in the UAE in 2018, according to the World Health Organisation. New state-of-the-art facility in Masdar 'This year has really been focused on establishing the Biobank; so, we've developed the scientific protocol, which is really the blueprint of what we're going to do and why, and what the likely outcomes will be in terms of research findings,' Downey said. 'We've been developing a state-of-the-art new Biobanking facility at Masdar City, which will open towards the end of the year, allow us to really spread our wings and press on with the research.' Once the centre opens, 'the team plans to really start to sprint,' he added. The Abu Dhabi Biobank is part of a broader push by the emirate to become a regional leader in medical research, genomics, and personalised healthcare, alongside efforts like the Emirati Genome Programme and the Abu Dhabi Life Sciences Hub.
Zawya
14-07-2025
- Zawya
57th International Chemistry Olympiad sets new benchmarks for participation and organisation
United Arab Emirates: The Ministry of Education (MoE) has concluded the 57th edition of the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO), hosted in the UAE. The event welcomed over 360 students from 96 countries, marking the largest-ever participation since the Olympiad's launch in 1968. IChO 2025 earned global praise for its success, driven by record participation and world-class organisation. Thanks to the Ministry's advanced infrastructure and meticulous planning, students took part in simultaneous practical exams, setting a new benchmark in the Olympiad's history. Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, congratulated the winning students for their outstanding achievements and praised the efforts of all teams involved in delivering this exceptional edition of the Olympiad. She noted that investing in the new generation is at the heart of the UAE's development vision, and hosting this global event reflects the country's commitment to equipping youth with the tools needed to shape a brighter future. Her Excellency said: 'IChO serves as a platform for knowledge and cultural exchange across the globe. We in the UAE are proud to host this milestone edition of the Olympiad, continuing its legacy and reinforcing its place on the global knowledge map.' A milestone in global scientific education His Excellency Eng. Mohammed Al Qasim, Undersecretary of MoE, said: 'The UAE's hosting of the 57th IChO reflects the country's status as a global hub for education and research. This achievement highlights our continued investment in education and ability to support leading scientific initiatives. The Olympiad offered students an ideal platform to enhance their skills and engage in a global, innovation-driven experience.' World-class scientific competitions with global oversight IChO 2025 featured intense competition through rigorous theoretical and practical exams, designed in line with the highest international standards. Overseen by a committee of 23 experts from 12 countries, the exams were developed with support from over 120 researchers and research assistants from the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). More than 10,000 hours of preparation reflected the scientific effort and the quality of the academic content. Team UAE: Exemplifying national excellence The UAE's 2025 Olympiad team, selected through national trials, trained intensively for months, including camps at Russia's Sirius Educational Centre and UAEU, as part of the Ministry's dedication to nurturing top scientific talent. Bridging science and culture The 10-day Olympiad agenda blended academic tests with cultural and recreational activities, fostering global interaction between students and mentors. MoE, in partnership with key stakeholders, delivered a memorable experience rooted in academic excellence, creativity, and shared pursuit of knowledge. Final ceremony and winner recognition At the closing ceremony, His Excellency Eng. Al Qasim honoured the gold medallists. First place went to Xian Du (China), second to Vaclav Verner (Czechia), and third to Zilu Song (China). A total of 30 gold, 73 silver, and 107 bronze medals were awarded, alongside 30 certificates of appreciation for outstanding participation. MoE then handed over the Olympiad flag to Uzbekistan, the host of the next edition. UAE: Leading the way in scientific gatherings IChO 2025 builds on the UAE's successful track record of hosting events like the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) 2021 and the International Biology Olympiad (IBO) 2023, showcasing its ability to deliver world-class scientific and educational events.
Gulf Today
06-07-2025
- Gulf Today
UAE Chemistry Olympiad begins today in Dubai
The UAE will host the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO), the world's leading scientific competition in the field of chemistry. Bringing together over 360 students from more than 90 countries in Dubai from 6 to 14 July 2025, this edition marks the largest participation in the Olympiad's history since its launch in 1968, underscoring the UAE's growing position in global science education. Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, noted that hosting this prestigious global event reflects the UAE's vision to become a hub for education, science, innovation, and academic excellence, and reiterates the country's unwavering commitment to nurturing young scientific talent. She added, 'This milestone will inspire Emirati students and help shape a new generation of scientists capable of innovation and global competitiveness. It also represents a national opportunity to enhance the quality of education and develop a learning environment that keeps pace with the world's best models.' Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President and Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), stated, 'The International Chemistry Olympiad 2025 serves as a prestigious global platform that celebrates academic excellence and fosters a spirit of scientific innovation among youth. It also underscores the prominent role of UAEU in advancing scientific research and learning. Our participation in this significant event reaffirms UAEU's commitment to national leadership in the generation, dissemination, and application of knowledge for the greater benefit of society.' He added, 'Through our engagement in this initiative, we reaffirm our mission to address global challenges and to contribute to shaping a future built on the foundations of knowledge, discovery, and innovation. At UAEU, we firmly believe that empowering youth and supporting global scientific collaboration are essential pillars for building a more prosperous and sustainable world.' Organised by the UAE Ministry of Education (MoE), the IChO 2025 agenda will feature advanced theoretical and practical exams, cultural tours, and social events that promote cultural exchange among youth from across the globe. This edition introduces cutting-edge technological innovations, including digital tools to monitor exam progress and an integrated practical testing environment, designed as a model for future educational laboratories. Four students, chosen through a rigorous national selection process, will represent the UAE at IChO 2025. The national team has completed an intensive training programme, including specialised workshops at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) and a science camp at the Sirius Education Centre in Russia. WAM
