Meet Postdoc Saeed Seyedmohammad, PhD
Meet Our Postdocs is an Occasional Series Featuring our Postdoc Students
Saeed Seyedmohammad, PhD, a postdoc in the laboratory of Professor Jennifer Van Eyk, is training as a biochemist in the Smidt Heart Institute. His interest lies in the study of proteins and cardiovascular diseases. Seyedmohammad is primarily focusing on the identification of newly synthesized proteins in human cardiomyocytes to help understand and aid in the early detection of heart failure.
Here, we learn more about some of Seyedmohammad's greatest scientific achievements and how he hopes to make an impact in the field.
What has been your greatest scientific achievement in your career so far?
The trimeric model of a challenging protein that I proved during my doctoral studies. What made this a significant scientific achievement was the vast controversy surrounding the membrane protein and lack of reliable methods to accurately determine its function relative to its structure.
Who is your science hero?
My aunt, who is an associate professor in polymer engineering. When she realized I had an interest in science, she took it upon herself to take me to various science conventions, exhibitions, classes, and university tours. She even introduced me to her colleagues!
These opportunities allowed me to really appreciate the true depth of her work and her ability to use her knowledge and create a real-life impact. She was the first person in Iran who developed a biodegradable polymer-based stent in coronary vascular intervention, despite being severely underfunded and undermined as a woman in her field.
Her perseverance and strength to advance in the field has had a lifelong impact on me. She has been a source of motivation for me in my work and projects.
What is your favorite thing about science and research?
Intellectual challenges arising from curiosity, problem solving and patience. I believe our mission as individuals is to seek the answers to the many questions that have been asked throughout past generations.
How do you want to change the world?
By inspiring the next generation of scientists and promoting collaborative efforts in scientific projects. I believe integration of interdisciplinary fields is the first step in breaking the bounds of science and moving a step closer to changing the world.