Can you share a little bit about yourself and your role at SafeTREC?
I am a postdoctoral researcher at SafeTREC starting June 1st, 2022. Before that, I was a postdoc at Texas A&M Transportation Institute, right after receiving my Ph.D. from Texas A&M University. My doctoral research was centered on leveraging statistical modeling and data analysis tools to quantify the safety and health implications of transportation systems. I also hold a master's degree in transportation engineering, from Amirkabir University of Technology (Tehran Polytechnic).
What sparked your interest in transportation safety research?
I am originally from Tehran, Iran. Sitting in traffic for long hours was part of my everyday routine, perhaps the underlying reason behind my interest in transportation engineering in the first place. My first exposure to transportation engineering was in the summer of 2011 when I started my internship at a transportation engineering firm. My interest in transportation safety has evolved ever since, and eventually, I found myself doing my doctoral research on traffic safety.
What current projects are you working on at SafeTREC?
I am working on projects which are centered on promoting the safety and health of active road users, such as pedestrians and bicyclists. One recent project that I have been working on is about incorporating equity in roadway safety. Sociodemographic and economic disparities in roadway crashes and fatalities are observed, which implies the long-lasting need for interventions. This, however, is a complex, multidisciplinary problem that requires in-depth analysis to tackle the problem from the roots rather than addressing the symptoms.
What issues are you particularly interested or passionate about?
I am passionate about making cities more livable and safer. I am also interested in technologies, and I found my niche when I realized I can combine both, conducting research at the intersection of urban transportation, technologies, and public health. I also have a passion for mentoring and helping others to achieve their best. My passion has spurred me on to participate in teaching, mentorship, and leadership programs. Did I mention I have a teaching and mentorship excellence certificate?
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love being active; I play many sports like tennis, swimming, and soccer. Playing sports keeps me both physically and mentally strong. I also occasionally paint, in particular, acrylic painting.
This Spotlight interview was conducted in collaboration with UC Berkeley SafeTREC. The opinions and perspectives expressed are those of the interviewee and not necessarily those of SafeTREC.
