Zhila Semnani-Azad - Nutritional Sciences

Zhila Semnani AzadStudent Name: Zhila Semnani-Azad
Country of Origin: Toronto, Ontario Canada
Pre-MSc/PhD Education: Double Majors: Human Biology (Health and Disease) and Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto
Recent Research Experience: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Epidemiology

Current Research: I am a graduate student with Dr. Anthony Hanley in the Department of Nutritional Sciences. My research focus is on adipose tissue inflammation and its relationship with the progression of disorders underlying type 2 diabetes. Specifically, I am interested in assessing the predictability of a novel biomarker of adipose tissue macrophage activation, sCD163, in the progression of diabetes using the PROspective Metabolism and ISlet cell Evaluation (PROMISE) cohort.

Why Faculty of Medicine: I chose the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto because of its world-renowned excellence in research. The extensively developed research program provides excellent research training and offers numerous opportunities to meet and collaborate with brilliant students and faculty. In addition, the well-established alumni network makes it easy to connect with graduates and current leaders in the field, as well as gain insight to vast career opportunities.

Future Education Plans and/or Career Goals:
Upon completing my Ph.D. degree, I hope to pursue a career in health research as a professor with a lab of my own.

Contact Ambassador Zhila Semnani-Azad