![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/bionews\/files\/2025\/01\/Reduced_Lab-1024x768.jpg\")
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
I\u2019m originally from Iran and moved to Canada in 2017. I graduated with a bachelor\u2019s degree in Biology in May 2024. During my time at university, I had the amazing opportunity to work in Dr. Jeffrey Richards\u2019 lab, where I focused on the metabolic adaptation of Atlantic salmon. Thanks to the NSERC USRA award and a directed study, I was able to design and carry out my project on salmon muscle metabolism under the supervision of Dr. Benjamin Negrete. I was thrilled to receive second place at MURC 2024 for my oral presentation on this research.<\/p>\n
I explored how different light treatments\u2014think long summer days versus short winter ones\u2014affect salmon’s physiology, muscle growth, and metabolism. This has major implications for both ecosystems and the aquaculture industry. I get to use this amazing machine called OROBOROS, where I inject all sorts of interesting compounds\u2014everything from poisons to fuels (carbs vs fat)\u2014to see how the muscle mitochondria react. It\u2019s a fascinating process of uncovering how the mitochondria react to different compounds under controlled conditions.<\/p>\n This research is critical because it helps us understand how fish adapt to environmental stress, which is vital for conservation efforts and making sustainable fishing practices possible. On a broader scale, it could give us deeper insights into muscle physiology, showing how muscles function under stress in general\u2014something that could even have implications beyond aquatic life.<\/p>\n The toughest part of research? Definitely when things don\u2019t go as planned, which is more often than you\u2019d think! It\u2019s frustrating when results aren\u2019t what you expect, but I\u2019ve learned that resilience and creativity are key. Troubleshooting and problem-solving have become second nature to me!<\/p>\n I started my academic journey with music, which might sound like an unusual path for a biologist. But music gave me a unique perspective\u2014understanding rhythms and patterns helped me notice patterns in scientific data too. Plus, my experiences growing up in various countries like Iran, Germany, and Azerbaijan and later moving to Canada have given me a strong sense of perseverance and adaptability, which are crucial when you\u2019re constantly dealing with the unknowns in research.<\/p>\n Embrace curiosity! Don\u2019t be afraid to ask questions\u2014even if they seem obvious or silly\u2014and don\u2019t shy away from mistakes. Research is like a puzzle, and every mistake is just a piece that brings you closer to solving it. Also, building strong relationships with mentors and peers is incredibly valuable\u2014those connections can open doors to new opportunities and make the process even more rewarding.<\/p>\n I\u2019m originally from Iran and moved to Canada in 2017. I graduated with a bachelor\u2019s degree in Biology in May 2024. During my time at university, I had the amazing opportunity to work in Dr. Jeffrey Richards\u2019 lab, where I focused on the metabolic adaptation of Atlantic salmon. Thanks to the NSERC USRA award and … <\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/bionews\/files\/2025\/01\/Reduced_OROBOROS-machine-and-experiment-with-fish-1024x677.jpg\")
Why is this research important?<\/em><\/h4>\n
What has been most challenging about doing research?<\/em><\/h4>\n
How has your unique background influenced your research experience?<\/em><\/h4>\n
What advice would you give to other students considering doing a research project?<\/em><\/h4>\n
What do you like to do in your spare time?<\/em><\/h4>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.ubc.ca\/bionews\/files\/2025\/01\/Reduced_Santur-200x300.jpg\")
In my spare time, I love playing music, especially the violin, drums, and traditional Persian instruments like the Setar and Santour (hammered dulcimer). I also enjoy tutoring STEM and music, as it allows me to connect with students and share my passion for education. Lastly, I have fun acting in student-led film projects! \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"