In the tapestry of Maryland’s Muslim community, few names shine with the combined brilliance of intellect, humility, and service like Dr. Mohammed Abdul Khadeer — a man whose life embodies the verse:
“And say, ‘My Lord, increase me in knowledge.’” Surah Taha, 20:114
Roots of Wisdom and Gratitude
Born in 1960 in Warangal, Telangana — the second most prominent district after Hyderabad — Dr. Khadeer grew up in a family where faith, education, and compassion were core values. His father, Mohammed Abdul Jaleel, was not only a respected businessman but also a social worker and chairman of the Waqf Board of Warangal. Despite the challenges of pre-independence India, his parents prioritized education above all material possessions. They instilled in their children a love for knowledge and a duty to uplift others.
Dr. Khadeer often recalls his parents’ wisdom: “We may not leave behind riches, but we will leave behind education — the true inheritance.” Their prayers were fulfilled, as nearly every child in the family achieved remarkable academic success — from PhDs and engineers to physicians and educators.
“All siblings are who they are today because of their noble parents,” he reflects.
“May Allah forgive their shortcomings and grant them Jannatul Firdous.”
Journey of Scholarship and Service
A proud alumnus of Osmania University (1985–1990), Dr. Khadeer’s fascination with genetics and molecular biology guided him toward a lifelong pursuit of scientific discovery. In 1992, he came to the United States, spending his early years in Philadelphia before moving to Maryland as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and later, the Dental School.
Today, as a Senior Research Scientist at the National Institute on Aging (NIH), his work delves into the advanced frontiers of proteomics and metabolomics, contributing to over 40 scientific publications. His research embodies his belief that knowledge is a trust (Amanah) — a divine responsibility to benefit humanity.
Faith in Action: Building the Community
Beyond the laboratory, Dr. Khadeer dedicated decades to nurturing the spiritual and educational fabric of the Islamic Society of Baltimore (ISB). From 2000–2008, he served as a volunteer at Al-Rahmah Sunday School, developing a structured curriculum that shaped countless young minds.
As Secretary of Membership (2005–2009), he expanded community participation and proudly nominated ISB for the Bridge Builder Award (2009), granted by the Baltimore County Government. Later, as Secretary of Education (2011–2012), he helped raise funds for a professional science lab at Al-Rahmah High School — merging his love for science and faith.
During his presidency (2013–2015), he championed a new era of inclusion and leadership. Under his tenure:
Shaykh Yaseen Shaik was appointed Resident Scholar.
Sr. Fauzia Fazli was appointed Principal of Al-Rahmah School.
He introduced direct payroll systems, youth leadership programs, and broadened fundraising outreach for ISB, ARS, and ARQ.
Most notably, ISB acquired 31 acres of land on Windsor Mill Road — envisioned as an educational and community campus, now being developed into a Muslim burial ground.
“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” Surah Ar-Ra’d, 13:11
Dr. Khadeer lived this verse — believing that community transformation begins with inner sincerity and service for the sake of Allah.
Life Rooted in Civic Responsibility
His sense of service extended far beyond religious institutions. As President of the Westview Park Improvements and Civic Association (2016–2018), he bridged communities of diverse faiths and backgrounds. Through his leadership:
The community secured grants from the Baltimore Community Foundation (BCF).
Hosted the first Multicultural Fall Festival.
Installed Citizens on Patrol street signs and coordinated National Night Out events to promote safety and unity.
His civic work reflected the Prophetic example — to be a mercy to all neighbors, Muslim and non-Muslim alike.
Family of Scholars and Dreamers
At home, Dr. Khadeer’s family reflects the same passion for education and purpose.
One daughter earned her master’s in biotechnology (UMBC) and works as a chemist.
Another daughter, a master’s degree holder, is a biology teacher and team lead at a BCPS school.
His son, a University of Maryland graduate, works in Global Marketing for Clinical Diagnostics at BD.
Each of them carries his legacy — blending professional excellence with moral conviction, driven by the Qur’anic ethos of responsibility and compassion.
Dr. Khadeer’s journey — from Warangal to the laboratories of NIH, from a Sunday school volunteer to a civic leader — stands as a beacon for future generations. He lives by the words of Michael Burnham from Star Trek Discovery:
“The only way to defeat fear is to tell it ‘No.’ No – we will not take shortcuts on the path to righteousness… No – we will not allow desperation to destroy moral authority.”
For him, faith, knowledge, and service are not separate paths — they are one continuous journey toward pleasing Allah.
“And those who believe and do righteous deeds — We will admit them to gardens [in Paradise].” Surah An-Nisa, 4:57
May Allah reward Dr. Mohammed Abdul Khadeer for his lifelong devotion to science, service, and faith — and may his example continue to illuminate the path for generations to come.