AstroTeach had the honor of interviewing Professor Nidhal Guessoum on April 18, 2025.

Professor Nidhal Guessoum is a distinguished astrophysicist, educator, and science communicator known for his influential work in gamma-ray astrophysics and his efforts to bridge the gap between science and society in the Arab and Muslim world. He currently serves as Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the American University of Sharjah in the UAE.

His career spans decades of groundbreaking research, including significant contributions to the study of gamma-ray bursts, cosmology, and the interface of science and theology. He has authored numerous academic papers as well as popular science books, including the acclaimed Islam’s Quantum Question, which explores the relationship between science and Islamic thought, and The Story of the Universe, a book that brings the cosmos closer to the general public.

Beyond research, Professor Guessoum is a leading voice in advocating for science education reform in the Muslim world and challenging misconceptions about science and religion.

In this interview, Professor Guessoum shares his fascinating journey through science, offers deep reflections on the philosophical implications of modern cosmology, and provides valuable advice for aspiring young scientists. His insights are both inspiring and thought-provoking, making this a must-watch conversation for anyone passionate about science, education, and the broader human quest for knowledge.