‘I was nearly arrested’: escaping Myanmar’s military leadership for a PhD abroad

Nature

by Melissa Hobson

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

In February 2021, Myanmar’s military coup disrupted the nation, leading to widespread protests and arrests as democratic institutions were dismantled. Amidst this chaos, physician May T. N. Noe joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), resigning from her government job to resist military rule. Despite facing unemployment, stress, and societal pressure, Noe persevered, drafting a research proposal on mental health in academia—a topic deeply personal given her own struggles. Her journey highlights resilience in the face of adversity, as she secured a PhD scholarship in Switzerland, escaping Myanmar’s turmoil to pursue academic goals while advocating for democracy. Noe’s story began when she worked in private and government healthcare before joining the CDM after the coup. The movement, which included over 400,000 civil servants, faced criticism from those who accused its members of abandoning their duties. Noe, a nutrition team leader at the time, felt compelled to resist military rule despite the challenges of being unemployed and unable to help patients in need. Her decision to resign was driven by a belief in standing up against injustice, even as Myanmar’s political climate remained unstable. In 2023, nearing her 35th birthday, Noe applied for the Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships program. Despite initial setbacks—missing deadlines and遭遇 rejection letters—she persisted, eventually securing funding to pursue a PhD on mental health in academia at the University of Lausanne. Her research focuses on the stress faced by academics, reflecting her own experiences navigating uncertainty and pressure during her time in Myanmar. Noe’s journey is not just one of personal achievement but also a testament to the power of resistance and education in the face of oppression. By sharing her story with *Nature*, she aims to inspire others facing similar challenges to pursue their goals despite obstacles. Her narrative underscores the importance of standing up for democratic values and highlights the global relevance of mental health research, particularly in high-stress environments like academia. Noe’s story is a beacon of hope for those navigating conflict and adversity, showing that even in darkness, education and determination can illuminate a path forward.

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Originally published on Nature on 2/14/2026