Arya Amiri, PhD candidate in Systems Design Engineering will receive federal funding to support his research into the treatment of soft biological tissue disease.
The prestigious Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship provides $50,000 per year for three years during his doctoral studies, a total value of $150,000.
Amiri, who is co-supervised by Dr. Taisiya Sigaeva and Dr. Thomas Willett came to Canada in 2022 with degrees from universities in Iran. He chose Waterloo Engineering for his doctoral studies so that he could pursue his chosen research in biomedical engineering.
Amiri’s research aims to advance our understanding of the relationship between the structure, function and properties of soft biological tissues such as the skin and the aorta. His work looks at improving the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of diseases related to these tissues such as aortic aneurysms and skin wounds.
Personal experience played a significant role in shaping his interest in this field.
“I was diagnosed with cancer and endured excruciating chemotherapy sessions,” said Amiri. “This inspired my research which will lead to better treatments and thus, contribute to human wellbeing.
Amiri plans to establish his own research group as an assistant professor – he sees receiving the Vanier scholarship as a significant step towards realizing this goal.
The Vanier scholarship program was created by the federal government in 2008 to help Canadian institutions attract and retain highly qualified doctoral students.
François-Philippe Champagne, the minister of innovation, science and industry, said the recipients “...are doing the groundbreaking work that will contribute not only to Canada’s health and well-being but also to the world’s.
"Through this funding, the Government of Canada is investing in the next generation of researchers and inspiring them to continue to think outside the box and tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow,” he said in a media release.
Go to Waterloo celebrates Vanier scholars for the University announcement.
The Vanier Scholarship is one of the external awards available to prospective Waterloo Engineering graduate students to support their studies.