Farshad Safi Samghabadi, a doctoral student at the Cullen College of Engineering, has earned second place for his poster presentation at the 2023 Symposium for Frontiers in Soft Matter and Macromolecular Networks.
Safi is a member of the Conrad Research Group, which is led by Jacinta Conrad, Frank M. Tiller Professor in the Brookshire Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. Safi's presentation is “Diffusive Dynamics of Filamentous Viruses in Crowded DNA Solutions.”
He described his reaction to winning second place as equal parts excited and proud.
“Winning academic awards has been always a reminder that perseverance and a passion for learning can lead to remarkable opportunities,” he said. “Also, it is a testament to the support and mentorship I've received throughout my academic journey and it motivates me to continue pursuing excellence in my field.”
Noting that Conrad's group is focused on soft matter, Safi said his work deals with the dynamics – or the study of motion – in charged polymer systems.
“I try to understand how the presence of charges on the polymers alters polymer conformation, as well as solvent and particle transport for both polymers in solution and surface-grafted brushes,” he said. “We are using a variety of techniques such as confocal microscopy, rheology, and ellipsometry to study these systems. We are focusing on controlling and generating functionality in flexible, deformable materials.”
He added, “The results of our studies provide the fundamental insight needed to generate directional movement on soft surfaces and their applications ranging from drug delivery and gene therapy to the design of antifouling surfaces and biosensors. Part of my studies are in collaboration with Dr. Rae Robertson Anderson at University of San Diego on DNA solutions and Dr. Amanda Marciel’s group at Rice University on polymer brushes. ”
Although it was an individual award, Safi was quick to mention that it would not have been possible without support from others.
“Reaching academic success is a team effort,” he said. “I'm truly fortunate to have had the privilege of working with Dr. Jacinta Conrad. She is such a dedicated and inspiring mentor.”
“Regarding my recent award, I specifically thank Dr. Robertson-Anderson and her group for their amazing contribution to our work. Also, I am lucky to have the greatest colleagues and friends and the most supporting family.”
Safi's anticipated graduation date is Spring 2025. While he finds academia and industry opportunities to both be appealing, for now he's focused on his research.
“While both have their unique attractions, my goal remains consistent – to continuously grow and to apply my skills to make a positive impact by pursuing a career that I can enjoy,” he said. “I am taking steps to make well-informed decisions about my future career by attending UH future faculty program, attending scientific conferences, and considering the possibility of doing an industry internship prior to Spring 2025. Whichever direction I choose, I am committed to embracing the challenges and opportunities it presents, and I look forward to the journey ahead!”