In an era of globalization, science has become an increasingly borderless field dedicated to advancing human well-being. This is especially evident in neuroscience, where ongoing discoveries are deepening understanding of the human brain, one of the body’s most complex and least understood organs, while shaping the future of medicine. Among the emerging researchers in this field is Kazakhstani neurosurgeon and PhD scholar Galymzhan Issabekov.

Issabekov is part of a new generation of scientists building international careers in research and medicine. His academic path began at Peking University, where he received medical training and developed a strong foundation in research. He later completed a residency in functional neurosurgery in Beijing, combining clinical practice with scientific work and focusing in particular on hemispherectomy, a complex procedure used to treat severe pediatric epilepsy.

From G.Issabekov’s personal archive

Seeking further professional development, Issabekov continued his training in Japan. With support from the Takeda Science Foundation, he joined Tokyo Women’s Medical University as a fellow, working alongside neurosurgeon Professor Takaomi Taira. This period was instrumental in shaping his research interests and integrating him into the international scientific community.

He is currently based in Berlin, where he conducts research at Charité University Hospital. His work focuses on improving deep brain stimulation (DBS), an advanced therapy used to treat Parkinson’s disease. The procedure involves implanting electrodes in deep brain structures to regulate abnormal neural activity.

As Issabekov explains, some DBS procedures are performed while the patient is conscious. During these operations, neurophysiologists monitor electrical brain activity in real time, providing neurosurgeons with highly precise, navigation-like guidance. This enables the accurate placement of electrodes in extremely small regions such as the subthalamic nucleus. Experienced specialists can even identify these areas through the distinct patterns, or “sounds,” of neuronal signals, reflecting a high level of surgical precision.

Together with his colleagues, Issabekov is developing a new intraoperative protocol that allows for simultaneous brain stimulation and real-time monitoring of neural responses. Previously, combining these processes posed significant technical challenges. The new method is expected to offer deeper insight into the mechanisms of DBS and support more individualized treatment approaches.

The research team has reached an important stage, with initial findings now being prepared for publication. Early results indicate strong potential for meaningful scientific advances.

Despite working abroad, Issabekov maintains close ties with Kazakhstan’s academic community. He is co-founder and vice president of the Global Central Asian Science and Technology (CAST) Association, which connects more than 150 researchers from Kazakhstan and across Central Asia in over 30 countries. The organization supports early-career scientists by facilitating international placements and promoting global collaboration.

“Many Kazakh researchers abroad are willing to contribute to the development of science in their home country,” Issabekov said. “What has been missing is a structured platform to connect them. Our association aims to fill that gap. We also help participants in the Bolashak program, particularly within the ‘500 Scientists’ initiative, find suitable research institutions and laboratories overseas.”

Beyond his scientific work, Issabekov highlights a broader issue faced by many Kazakhs living abroad: preserving cultural identity. In multicultural environments, maintaining language, traditions, and values can be challenging, yet remains essential.

“National identity goes beyond language or customs, it reflects a person’s worldview,” he said. “Wherever you are, it is important not to lose a sense of who you are. Living abroad, you inevitably become an informal representative of your country.”

From G.Issabekov’s personal archive

In his own family, this principle is applied in everyday life. His children are growing up bilingual, speaking both Kazakh and English, while staying connected to their cultural heritage. “Consistency matters,” he noted. “Regularly speaking your native language, observing traditions, and passing on cultural values can have a lasting impact.”

Comparing education systems worldwide, Issabekov points to distinct national strengths: discipline and work ethic in China, respect and teamwork in Japan, creativity and independence in the United States, and structure and academic autonomy in Germany. In his view, Kazakhstan would benefit from adopting a balanced approach that integrates these qualities while preserving its own cultural identity.

Issabekov’s story reflects the value of persistence, scientific inquiry, and international collaboration. Through his work on the brain’s signaling systems, he is contributing to advances in medicine and is part of a new generation of Kazakhstani scientists working on the global stage.