Assist. Prof. Dr. Elham Farhadi | Autoimmunity | Best Researcher Award

Assisstant Professor from Tehran University of Medical Sciences | Iran

Dr. Elham Farhadi is a distinguished scholar and researcher in Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, recognized for her extensive contributions to the study of autoimmune and hematological disorders. With over a decade of academic and research experience, she has significantly advanced knowledge in immunopathogenesis, genetic polymorphisms, molecular diagnostics, and therapeutic strategies. She earned her Ph.D. in Hematology and Transfusion Medicine from Iran University of Medical Sciences, following her Master’s from the High Institute of Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine and her Bachelor’s in Laboratory Science from Kashan University of Medical Sciences. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with renowned institutions, contributing to national and international research initiatives. Her work has been widely published in Scopus- and PubMed-indexed journals, with presentations at prestigious conferences worldwide, including in China, Germany, and Japan. She has served as a reviewer for respected journals such as Tumor Biology and Rheumatology Research, highlighting her expertise and influence in the field. Known for her mentorship of graduate students and commitment to professional development, Dr. Farhadi combines rigorous scientific inquiry with a passion for advancing healthcare outcomes through research, education, and collaborative engagement in the scientific community.

Professinal Profile

Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Elham Farhadi’s academic journey reflects a consistent focus on excellence and specialization in hematology and laboratory sciences. She earned her Ph.D. in Hematology and Transfusion Medicine from Iran University of Medical Sciences, where her doctoral research focused on autoimmune disease pathogenesis and molecular mechanisms affecting fibroblast-like synoviocytes. Prior to this, she completed her M.Sc. in Hematology and Transfusion Medicine at the High Institute of Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, graduating as the top student. Her Bachelor’s degree in Laboratory Science was awarded by Kashan University of Medical Sciences, also with top honors. She began her higher education with an Associate degree in Laboratory Science from Hamedan University of Medical Sciences. Dr. Farhadi’s educational foundation was enriched through specialized training courses, including a Blood Cancer Diagnosis Workshop, Quantitative PCR Workshop, and Scientific Writing Workshop, equipping her with advanced laboratory, molecular, and analytical skills. Her academic path demonstrates her unwavering commitment to deepening her expertise, staying updated with the latest methodologies, and applying evidence-based approaches to both research and clinical practice in hematology, molecular biology, and transfusion medicine.

Professional Experience

Dr. Farhadi has a rich professional background combining laboratory expertise, academic service, and research leadership. She worked at the Molecular Immunology Research Center (MIRC) for one year, contributing to significant immunology research projects. Her collaboration with the Rheumatology Research Center involved laboratory setup and development of molecular protocols, supporting cutting-edge investigations in autoimmune disorders. She has also served as a reviewer for high-impact journals, including Tumor Biology and Rheumatology Research, ensuring scientific rigor in published studies. Over her career, Dr. Farhadi has supervised and advised multiple postgraduate theses, guiding research in systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus. She has presented her findings at prestigious international conferences, delivering oral and poster presentations in Shiraz, Shanghai, Leipzig, Tokyo, and Tehran. Beyond her research and academic work, she has contributed to scientific dissemination through workshops and seminars, fostering knowledge exchange among peers and students. Her professional experience reflects a blend of hands-on research skills, critical peer-review responsibilities, and leadership in academic mentorship, establishing her as an influential figure in hematology and related biomedical sciences.

Research Interests

Dr. Farhadi’s research interests are deeply rooted in understanding the molecular and immunological mechanisms of autoimmune and hematological disorders. She has focused on exploring the genetic polymorphisms and molecular pathways involved in diseases such as systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and type I diabetes. Her work extends to the role of microRNAs, aquaporin regulation, and gene expression variations in disease progression and response to therapy. Additionally, she is interested in novel diagnostic biomarkers, targeted therapeutic interventions, and the use of molecular techniques—such as quantitative PCR and gene expression profiling—to enhance disease detection and management. Her studies often integrate immunology, molecular biology, and clinical hematology to bridge the gap between laboratory research and patient care. Dr. Farhadi’s interdisciplinary approach includes collaboration with national and international research teams, enabling her to contribute to advancements in both fundamental science and applied medical research. She also actively investigates the impact of molecular signaling pathways on fibroblast-like synoviocytes, aiming to uncover new targets for therapeutic development in autoimmune diseases.

Research Skills

Dr. Farhadi possesses an extensive skill set in molecular biology, immunology, and hematology research. She is proficient in advanced laboratory techniques, including quantitative PCR, gene expression analysis, cell culture, and immunoassays. Her expertise extends to molecular diagnostics for autoimmune diseases and hematologic malignancies, incorporating both experimental design and data interpretation. She has substantial experience in conducting systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and statistical analysis of biomedical research data. Dr. Farhadi’s technical skills are complemented by her ability to develop and optimize laboratory protocols, supervise research teams, and mentor students in scientific methodology. She has participated in specialized training programs, enhancing her capabilities in cancer diagnosis, molecular genetics, and academic writing. As a journal reviewer, she is adept at critically evaluating research manuscripts, ensuring high scientific and ethical standards. Additionally, her conference participation reflects her skills in scientific communication, both in presenting complex data to expert audiences and in engaging in academic discourse to foster collaboration. Her combination of technical mastery, analytical thinking, and leadership in research positions her as a versatile and impactful contributor to the field.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Farhadi’s academic excellence has been recognized through multiple awards and honors. She was the top student upon graduating with her B.Sc. in Laboratory Science and again at the completion of her M.Sc. in Hematology and Transfusion Medicine. These distinctions underscore her dedication, scholarly achievements, and mastery of her field. Her work has earned her invitations to present research at esteemed international conferences such as the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) in Shanghai, the Autoimmunity Congress in Leipzig, and the Japan College of Rheumatology Annual Meeting in Tokyo. She has also delivered oral presentations at national and regional scientific gatherings, earning recognition for the quality and impact of her research. Her role as a peer reviewer for high-impact journals reflects her standing in the academic community, entrusted with maintaining the quality of scientific literature. Through her awards, professional appointments, and contributions to collaborative research, Dr. Farhadi has solidified her reputation as a respected researcher and educator in hematology and autoimmune disease research.

Publication Top Notes

• Intravenous methylprednisolone pulse as a treatment for hospitalised severe COVID-19 patients: results from a randomised controlled clinical trial — 2020 — 472 citations

• Epigenetics in rheumatoid arthritis; fibroblast‐like synoviocytes as an emerging paradigm in the pathogenesis of the disease — 2020 — 101 citations

• Transformation of fibroblast‐like synoviocytes in rheumatoid arthritis; from a friend to foe — 2021 — 100 citations

• Polygenic Risk Scores have high diagnostic capacity in ankylosing spondylitis — 2021 — 82 citations

• Gender differences in Iranian patients with ankylosing spondylitis — 2015 — 82 citations

• NF-κB signaling in rheumatoid arthritis with focus on fibroblast-like synoviocytes — 2020 — 62 citations

Conclusion

Dr. Elham Farhadi is an outstanding researcher whose work has significantly contributed to advancing the understanding of autoimmune and hematological diseases. Her dedication to unraveling complex molecular mechanisms has led to impactful findings in disease pathogenesis, diagnostics, and potential treatments. With a strong academic background, extensive publication record, and a history of successful mentorship, she has played a pivotal role in fostering research excellence both nationally and internationally. Her collaborations across research centers, participation in international conferences, and service as a journal reviewer demonstrate her leadership and commitment to scientific advancement. The combination of her technical expertise, innovative research vision, and dedication to training the next generation of scientists positions her as a leading figure in her field. Dr. Farhadi’s continued work promises to yield valuable contributions to global health, making her a deserving candidate for recognition through prestigious awards such as the Best Researcher Award. Her future endeavors are likely to expand the frontiers of hematology and immunology, bridging laboratory research with clinical applications to improve patient care worldwide.