Magdalena is a critical medical anthropologist with extensive interdisciplinary training in humanities and social sciences, with a focus on Asia. Since 2008 she has lived, studied, and worked in Asia’s many fascinating regions. She has conducted original ethnographic research in Yunnan Province, Kashmir Valley, and the Ladakh region. She speaks Mandarin Chinese and Hindi/Urdu.

Magdalena's research is comparative and interdisciplinary and concerns one of the most complex and fascinating issues in social sciences, namely the intersection of medicine and culture. In particular, she is interested in how culture and larger social context shape the way we think about health, experience illness, and seek help, with a focus on everyday life.

Magdalena has learned a great deal about sustainable living from farmers, artisans, and shepherds in both the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, and subsequently became a committed and critical advocate for just and sustainable development.

 Magdalena is also a dedicated educator, passionate about sharing her academic and non-academic knowledge and skills with learners of all ages and backgrounds. She won three Graduate Student Teaching Awards for her TA duties during her PhD training program at NUS. For a couple of years before joining the RVRC, she gave talks on the history of cashmere fabric and the principles of sustainable tourism to visitors in Ladakh.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Magdalena has a deep passion for Central Asian design and handicrafts, particularly the intricate artistry and cultural heritage they represent. She loves nature, especially the challenge, views, and solitude that mountains offer, and whenever time permits, she explores the trekking routes of Ladakh and Kashmir with her husband and son.