Tishk International University is pleased to highlight the professional and academic journey of Dr. Saya Mustafa Azeez, a graduate of the Faculty of Dentistry, whose career reflects continuous learning, research, clinical practice, and dedication to academic development.
Dr. Saya graduated from TIU in 2015–2016 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. After graduation, she began her academic career in 2016 as a part-time Research Assistant at TIU while pursuing a Master’s degree in Orthodontics at Hawler Medical University.
In 2020, she was appointed as an Assistant Lecturer in the Orthodontic Department at TIU, where she taught students, supervised clinical training, and participated in academic research. During this period, she also worked as a clinical trainer in the Joint Board Program with the Kurdistan Higher Council of Medical Specialties for Orthodontics. In 2024, she was promoted to Lecturer, a position she currently holds at TIU.
Alongside her academic career, Dr. Saya has continued her professional development. Since 2023, she has been pursuing a PhD in Orthodontics at Duhok University, focusing on advanced orthodontic materials and 3D-printed clear aligners. She also manages her own private orthodontic clinic, combining academic research with clinical practice.
Dr. Saya describes balancing postgraduate studies, teaching, research, and clinical responsibilities as one of her main challenges. She overcame these challenges through organization, discipline, persistence, collaboration, and continuous self-development.
Reflecting on her experience at TIU, she highlights the university’s academic environment, clinical education, research opportunities, and supportive learning culture as important elements in her professional development. Research-related projects particularly strengthened her critical thinking, academic writing, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.
Today, Dr. Saya emphasizes that clinical skills, communication, critical thinking, research ability, digital dentistry, and continuous learning are essential in modern orthodontics. She encourages current students to build strong clinical foundations, stay updated with new technologies, and become involved in research early in their careers.
Her journey from TIU Dentistry graduate to lecturer, researcher, and specialist orthodontist reflects the importance of continuous learning and professional development.
“Success is the result of continuous learning, hard work, and persistence.”
