ProfessorFariba Dehghani

PhD UNSW, Australia; M.Eng The University of Shiraz, Iran

Heading a multidisciplinary research group, Professor Fariba Dehghani leads a prominent team of researchers in the field of bioengineering. This team encompasses a wide spectrum of expertise, including postgraduates, honour students, post-doctoral fellows, and research associates. Their collective efforts are centred around pioneering bioengineering methodologies to tackle global challenges in regenerative medicine, health, and nutrition. This endeavour is fortified by collaborations with experts in various fields, such as data science, molecular dynamics, chemistry, physics, biology, clinical practice, and nutrition.

The research pursuits of Professor Dehghani's team span several key domains:

1. Fabrication and processing of biomaterials, with a special focus on designing innovative medical implants inspired by nature and personalised medicine.

2. Surface modifications aimed at preventing biofilm formation and controlling cell adhesion.

3. Creation of miniaturized and portable biosensors for diagnostic purposes and the monitoring of food safety and quality.

4. Advancements in drug delivery and drug discovery.

5. Extraction of bioactive compounds with health benefits from natural resources.

Professor Dehghani earned her PhD in chemical engineering from UNSW in 1997. Subsequently, she secured an esteemed ARC Postdoctoral fellowship, sustaining her engagement with UNSW as a senior research fellow and senior lecturer. During this tenure, she made significant strides in the realm of bioengineering research and played a pivotal role in establishing a Research and Development Company in collaboration with the pharmaceutical sector. The technologies she developed during this period were sublicensed to industry partners.

In 2006, she commenced her academic position at the University of Sydney and currently holds the role of Directors for Bioengineering Research within the Faculty of Engineering. She also served as the director of an Australian Research Council Training Centre from 2014 to 2018. Her reputation as a distinguished researcher earned her recognition from Engineers Australia, being acknowledged as one of the nation's top Engineers for her innovative contributions. Further accolades include the 2017 Award for Excellence from the Australia & New Zealand Federation of Chemical Engineering, the UNSW Alumni Award of Excellence in Engineering, and the University of Sydney Vice Chancellor Award for Outstanding Research Engagement and Innovation as well as outstading supervisor.

Professor Dehghani has played a pivotal role in cultivating a multidisciplinary research ecosystem that fosters collaboration among engineering, science, medicine, pharmacy, and agriculture. Her efforts have led to enduring partnerships within the biotechnology, biomedical, and food industries, with substantial funding garnered from both national and international funding agencies.

Throughout her academic journey, Professor Fariba Dehghani has guided more than 60 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students, alongside mentoring over 20 post-doctoral researchers and numerous academic staff members.