About me
I'm a scientist/engineer currently working in the biotechnology sector. I studied Materials Science and Engineering during my bachelor’s and master’s degrees, and Bioengineering during my Ph.D. I consider myself a multidisciplinary scientist, strongly advocating the power of cross-disciplinary exploration. My professional background includes extensive experience working with diverse sequencing technologies and genomics, with a particular focus on platform development and addressing materials needs.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I am originally from Iran and moved to the United States in 2014, right after completing my undergraduate studies, at 22, without the safety net of family or friends here. I was free-spirited and unburdened by fears, like a bird with the world as its canvas. Reflecting on it now, I'm grateful for the decision that completely transformed my life, personality, perspective on life, and career.
I am a tech enthusiast, fashion admirer, and lover of their fusion. In my spare time, I love designing and crafting accessories using 3D printer. Moreover, I find immense joy in the art of black-and-white sketching using pencils and pastels, occasionally infusing a touch of color. Lastly, I have a deep love for languages; currently fluent in Persian, English, and French,
MXene-based Nanopore Platform
My PhD
Advancing Nanopore Sensing: A Synopsis of My PhD Research on Next-Generation Platforms and Techniques:
During my Ph.D., I worked in the evolving field of nanopore technology, a rapidly advancing tool in the biophysical study of biomolecules. Originating as a concept for sequencing DNA, this technology has broadened its applications in biophysics, from studying molecular interactions to potential protein sequencing. However, like any evolving technology, nanopore systems have their set of challenges that hinder their full potential. Issues like the need for enhanced resolution, ensuring consistent device integrity, and finding methods for high-yield, large-scale device production have been pressing concerns in the field. In my Ph.D., I aimed to address these challenges by developing two nanopore platforms, both distinct in their approach but unified in their goal of pushing the boundaries of what nanopore technology can achieve. The first segment of my research concentrated on harnessing the power of a new family of two-dimensional (2D) materials called MXenes. By focusing on their unique electrical, electrochemical, and chemical attributes, the goal was to introduce a new sensing paradigm that could potentially outperform existing commercial technologies in terms of resolution. Through rigorous research, which involved implementing MXene nanopores for biomolecular study, developing methods for large-scale MXene monolayer film fabrication, and exploring the actuation properties of MXene nanopores, we were able to conceptualize a sensing platform that stood out in its capabilities. In the latter part of my Ph.D. work, I explored the fusion of synthetic and biological elements, creating a hybrid nanopore platform. By anchoring a DNA transporter protein within a synthetic membrane, we were able to construct a robust framework. This hybrid model was designed for operation at high voltages, aiming to achieve better resolution and processing speed than existing models. If you like to read more, check out my dissertation or all my publications on Google Scholar.
Hybrid Nanopore Platform