Every year the Pakistan Academy of Medical Sciences (PAMS) awards a gold medal and Junior Researcher Award for the best scientific research conducted in Pakistan. PAMS works under the patronage of the President of Pakistan and its primary objective is to promote research and education in the medical sciences.

The recipient of the 2003 PAMS award is Dr Mohammad Wasay, Assistant Professor in the Section of Neurology at AKU. Dr Wasay has been honoured for research which is expected to enhance early diagnosis and effective treatment of intracranial tuberculomas. "This award is an honour for AKU. Research is teamwork and the whole team deserves credit," says Dr Wasay. The University strives to provide an enabling environment to faculty and students to conduct research for needs that are widespread.

In January 2004, Dr Wasay was invited by the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) to attend the 2004 Leadership Forum meeting in the USA, where he presented a paper titled 'Neurological Care in Pakistan'. The Forum promotes neurology across the globe and Dr Wasay was the only neurologist selected from the Asia-Pacific region. Described by AAN as "a neurology advocate in Pakistan", Dr Wasay believes that "our job as neurologists is not only to write prescriptions but to create an atmosphere where optimal neurological care can be delivered. Advocacy of neurology is the single most important step towards improved neurological care and outcome in Pakistan."