From neuroimmunology to the classroom: A bold career change

After nearly a decade in academia, Ihssane Zouikr made a bold career pivot, one that led him from neuroimmunology research to the classroom, where he now inspires the next generation as a French teacher.

Originally from Morocco, Ihssane’s academic journey has taken him across continents. After studying in France and completing a PhD in Neuroimmunology at the University of Newcastle, he built an impressive research career. However, despite publishing in peer-reviewed journals and securing prestigious fellowships, he began to reassess his future.

Encouraged by friends and family and drawing on his experience teaching French through Alliance Française in Newcastle, Ihssane realised his passion for education. “I have always enjoyed teaching and mentoring other students,” he shares.

He enrolled in the Master of Teaching (Secondary) at the University of Newcastle, studying online full-time while balancing multiple commitments, including supervising university students, running a business, privately teaching French and raising two young children.

“The most notable challenge I faced while doing this Master is time constraint,” he explains. “Luckily, I had good time management skills which I have previously developed, and I was able to fix a few golden hours of quality work each day.”

The flexibility of the program was key to his success. “Studying online was perfect for me as I had other professional roles, and I could study at my own rhythm (with discipline though),” he says.

He also credits the teaching team for their support throughout his studies. “Honestly, they curated an amazing, engaging program and they genuinely cared about our professional development.”

Since graduating in February 2026, Ihssane has secured a permanent position teaching French to Year 7 students at Maitland High School. His passion for teaching is clear.

“What excites me the most about my field is seeing students’ happiness when they enjoy what they are learning,” he shares.

He brings theory to life in the classroom, using what he learned in his degree to support student engagement and wellbeing.

“All of the theories we studied… were all fundamental in becoming a quality teacher… ultimately resulting in increased engagement and improved students’ learning and wellbeing.”

For Ihssane, teaching is both meaningful and rewarding. “When the students are happy, teachers are happy too, of course!”

His advice for anyone considering postgraduate study is simple: “Don’t over think it, just enrol! You will gain valuable knowledge and experience that will shape a secure and rewarding career!”

Ihssane Zouikr

After nearly a decade in neuroimmunology research, Ihssane Zouikr followed his passion for teaching and now inspires Year 7 students as a French teacher.