Ali K. Zadeh

Graduate student - PhD

BRAIN CREATE



Biography

About me

I am originally from Iran and I obtained my bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering from the AmirKabir University of Technology. Later, I pursued my master's degree in the same major  from the University of Tehran. Currently, I am a PhD student in the Neuroscience program at the University of Calgary. I am passionate about exploring the complexities of the human brain and studying the interplay between the brain and behaviour. In my free time, I enjoy photography, travelling, and hiking.

My research

Low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) is a promising non-invasive tool that can be used to target specific parts of the brain. However, it's important to understand how different LIFU settings impact the brain's response. To address this, we are utilizing mathematical models and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to investigate how LIFU affects the brain and to test how different settings can influence the brain response. The ultimate goal of this study is to improve LIFU as a tool for clinicians and scientists in the future.

I am working under the guidance of my supervisor, Oury Monchi, who is the Scientific Director of CRIUGM in Montreal. Additionally, my co-supervisor, Samuel Pichardo, is the VP of Scientific Operations at NovusTX Devices, a Calgary-based startup that was incorporated in March 2020 with the aim of commercializing new LIFU technology for neuromodulation.

BRAIN CREATE program aspirations

The BRAIN CREATE program's unique blend of experts in both neuroscience and biomedical engineering offers an ideal collaborative environment for my research goals. Through this program, I am eager to gain valuable insights into the latest developments in non-invasive neurostimulation, both in industrial and academic settings. I am confident that this experience will provide me with the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute significantly to the field of neuroscience.

Commercialization

By gaining a deeper understanding of LIFU neuromodulation and its effective implementation, this method presents a significant commercialization opportunity for producing effective and non-invasive neurostimulation therapy. I am confident that we can develop innovative solutions that have the potential to revolutionize the field of neuromodulation. This will improve the lives of those in need of non-invasive neurostimulation therapy.



Awards

NSERC BRAIN CREATE Graduate Scholarship