Student Spotlight - Ferial Ahmadi

Ferial Ahmadi

Student, PhD

1. The “Spark”

I first became interested in this research area when I realized how strongly built environment can influence chronic diseases outcomes. With a Ph.D. in the built environment, I became motivated to create an interdisciplinary research area between my previous experience and epidemiology. This connection enables me to explore how thoughtful design strategies can improve public health and support healthier communities.

2. The “Journey”

A key moment in my research was when I mapped diabetes prevalence across 34 countries in the globe and identified something unexpected. Some of the highest prevalence rates appeared in regions with surprisingly low obesity rates. This pattern helped me to recognize that built environment characteristics and socio-economic factors play an important role in shaping chronic disease outcomes. After cleaning publicly available data and refining the mode, I leraned how spatial analysis can make complex patterns visible and demonstrate the real behind high or low prevalence of diabetes.

3. The “Big Picture”

In the next few years, I hope my research will help public health experts and urban planners to identify high-risk areas and implement appropriate interventions. I also want to translate my findings into simple, practical strategies that families and communities can use to shape their everyday environments, especially their houses in healthier ways.

4. The “Inspiration”

I have always been passionate about publishing in Nature, and reading research published there has shaped my path. Studies by Dr. Cassie M. Mitchell, Dr. Gordon Smith, and Dr. John R. Speakman especially inspired me. Their work showed me the power of innovative science and motivated me to pursue interdisciplinary research that made a bridge between built environment and epidemiology. Along this path, I am confident that my advisor and the mentors of School of Public Health at the University of memphis, will provide the guidance and support that I need to achieve this goal.

5. The “Personal Touch”

One unique skill that supports my research is my background in design and drawing, which helps me makes it easier for me to see complex ideas and express them clearly through schematic sketches before coding. I also draw inspiration from my love of nature which has remarkable abilities to adapt, respond, and remain resilient in diverse situations. Whenever possible, I spend time in nature to observe and learn from its mechanisms and behavioral responses.