On the heels of winning the University of Iowa's 2026 Postdoctoral Research Excellence Award for her work that explores nutritional therapy for autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Shemirani answered a few questions about her research journey from the basic sciences in Iran to translational research at Iowa. 

Where do you work?

I am a postdoctoral scholar in the lab of Terry Wahls, clinical professor in the Department of Internal Medicine in the Carver College of Medicine. I have an additional affiliation in the Department of Epidemiology in the College of Public Health.

Tell us about your path to the University of Iowa.

I completed my academic training in Iran, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biology and biochemistry before pursuing a PhD in nutrition sciences at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. My doctoral research focused on dietary interventions, particularly low-carbohydrate, Paleolithic-style, and moderate-carbohydrate diets, and their effects on inflammatory markers in individuals with metabolic syndrome. Over time, my interests evolved from basic science during my master’s training to clinical and translational research during my PhD, with a growing focus on how nutrition can improve outcomes in autoimmune diseases, particularly MS. After my PhD, I sought postdoctoral training in clinical trials and interdisciplinary research. Professor Wahls’ work on diet and MS closely aligned with my interests, making the University of Iowa an ideal place to continue my research.

Why did you decide to study this field at Iowa?

The Wahls Lab offered a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of nutrition science, neurology, and clinical trials. Her work is particularly compelling because it combines rigorous clinical research with a strong focus on patient-centered outcomes. I was also drawn to the interdisciplinary mentorship available at Iowa, including guidance from Linda Snetselaar, professor in the Department of Epidemiology, and to the rich clinical trial datasets available for analysis. Equally important, I was impressed by how supportive and collaborative the research team was during the interview process. 

Overall, the welcoming and collegial environment, combined with the strong interdisciplinary mentorship and research opportunities, made the University of Iowa an ideal place to further develop my research and contribute to advancing nutrition-based approaches to autoimmune diseases. 

Tell us about your research. What accomplishments are you most proud of?

My research focuses on understanding how nutrition influences metabolic and inflammatory pathways in neurological and chronic diseases, particularly MS. The goal of this work is to identify dietary strategies that can improve disease outcomes, reduce symptom burden, and ultimately contribute to more personalized approaches to nutrition-based care.  

During my postdoctoral training, I have authored 17 peer-reviewed publications, including five as first author and one as corresponding author. I have also secured several competitive research awards, including a T32 training grant, the Iowa Initiative for Artificial Intelligence Pilot AI Research Grant, the Obermann Interdisciplinary Research Grant, and the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center Diana Benz Memorial Seed Grant. These awards have allowed me to explore innovative interdisciplinary approaches that integrate metabolism, nutrition science, artificial intelligence, and data science. Beyond publications and funding, I am particularly proud of my collaborative work across disciplines and my mentorship of undergraduate and medical students.  

What do you want to do next?

My next goal is to continue developing my independent research program focused on the role of nutrition in MS, with particular attention to other diseases that co-exist, and investigating how diet impacts symptoms. I am currently preparing applications for career transition awards that will support the next stage of my research. Ultimately, I hope to pursue a faculty position where I can continue conducting research and mentoring trainees interested in nutrition and clinical research.

What advice would you give to others who are considering your field?

Nutrition science is an exciting and rapidly evolving field with broad implications for many chronic diseases. While medical nutrition therapy is well established in areas such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, its role in neurological and autoimmune conditions is only beginning to be explored, which creates tremendous opportunity.  

I encourage students to develop strong interdisciplinary skills, including clinical research methods, data analysis, and collaboration across fields such as immunology, metabolism, and data science. Curiosity, persistence, and openness to mentorship from colleagues at all levels are essential. 

For those who are passionate about improving patient outcomes through lifestyle and nutrition interventions, this field offers many opportunities to make meaningful contributions to science and public health.

Mentors

• Terry Wahls, clinical professor, Department of Internal Medicine
• Linda Snetselaar, professor, Department of Epidemiology

Hometown  

Tehran, Iran