Dr. Tohid Didar holds Canada Research Chair (CRC) in NanoBiomaterials and is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and a member of the Institute for Infectious Disease Research (IIDR) at McMaster University. Before joining McMaster in January 2016, Dr. Didar was a postdoctoral fellow at the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University in Professor Donald Ingber’s lab. There he designed and developed a robust and clinically relevant extracorporeal dialysis-like treatment (DLT) device for sepsis. Since joining McMaster in 2016, he has established a world class interdisciplinary research platform on smart, multifunctional nano-biomaterials, and has fostered strategic industry collaborations within the biomedical and food sectors. Due to his contributions to this field, he was awarded the Ontario Early Researcher Award in 2019 and the Engineering Innovation Award of the Year by the Ontario Society of Professional Engineers in 2020. In 2019, Dr. Didar co-invented a pathogen repelling plastic wrap (RepelWrap). This technology won the 2020 Grand Prize for the Create the Future Design Concept by Tech Briefs magazine. Dr. Didar has also co-founded FendX (a McMaster spin off) to commercialize pathogen repellant and antimicrobial coatings developed in his lab. Dr. Didar has published over 50 journal papers, over 12 patent applications and has presented over 30 national and international invited talks and keynote speeches.

Paige (she/her) is the Laboratory Manager of the Didar Lab and a research assistant working in collaboration with FendX Technologies Inc. to optimize and scale-up both an anti-microbial catheter and an anti-microbial spray formulation. She completed her M.Sc in Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences at McMaster in Dr. Mick Bhatia’s lab in 2025. During her Master’s thesis, she investigated the stem-cell properties of possessed by different populations of patient leukemia cells. Prior to this, Paige obtained her H.BSc in Integrated Sciences at McMaster. Outside of the lab Paige enjoys reading, trying new recipes, and going for walks with her dog Archie.

Fereshteh received her PhD in Biomedical Engineering from McMaster University and is currently a Research Associate. She leads the development and commercialization of a point-of-care urinary tract infection (UTI) diagnostic platform, overseeing technology development, clinical validation, quality management systems, regulatory planning, and commercialization activities. Her expertise spans biomaterials, drug delivery systems, and medical device development, with a focus on translating innovative technologies from research to clinical and commercial applications.

Shaghayegh is a first-year Ph.D. student in the Didar Lab. Shaghayegh obtained her bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering at Sharif University and her master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering at Sharif University. In her master’s program, she worked on drug delivery systems for bone cancer and simulation of osteochondral defects by cell therapy. She loves tissue engineering. Outside of her academic life, Shaghayegh enjoys cooking and also watching movies. She loves walking during autumn and spring as nature helps her to feel refreshed.

Kavoos obtained his BSc in Materials Science Engineering from the Fars Science and Research University, Shiraz, Iran. He completed his MSc in Biomedical Engineering at the Tehran Polytechnic, Tehran, Iran. During his master’s program, he worked on surface modification of nanostructure substrates for artificial vascular grafts. He has published several papers in the fields of drug delivery systems, wound healing, and tissue engineering.

Akansha obtained her Bachelor of Engineering & Biomedical Engineering in Chemical and Biomedical Engineering from McMaster University in 2022. She has been a member of the Didar Lab since 2018 and is currently a direct-entry PhD student in Biomedical Engineering under the co-supervision of Dr. Tohid Didar and Dr. Carlos Filipe. Her research focuses on developing smart biointerfaces, biosensors, sensor stabilization strategies, and AI-enabled technologies for food safety, sustainability, and public health applications.

Akansha is a Vanier Canada Graduate Scholar and has received several distinctions for her research and innovation, including Food Scientist of the Year, the Widmer Poster Award at µTAS 2024, and support as a McMaster Student Seed Fund Entrepreneur. Her PhD work also contributed to the founding of The Sentinel Group, a startup and spin-off focused on AI-enabled food freshness and spoilage assessment. Outside of the lab, Akansha is also an active member of the McMaster community and has previously served as President of McMaster’s Engineering Graduate Society, Team Lead for the Student Wellness Centre’s Graduate Wellness Team, and as a member of the Biomedical Engineering Graduate Association. In her free time, Akansha enjoys hiking, exploring local cafés, trying new board games, and reading mystery novels.

Azin obtained her BSc and MSc in Biomedical Engineering-Biomaterials from Tehran Polytechnic in 2019 and 2022, respectively. During her master’s education, she focused on on developing novel cancer treatment method by designing nano-in-nano composite delivery system. She has published several papers in prestigious journals such as Advances in colloid and interface science. After joining the Didar Lab in 2024 as a PhD student, she looks forward to conducting research in the area of medical micro- and nano-robots. In her free time, she enjoys baking and yoga.

Rana received her bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Balikesir University, Turkey, in 2019. After graduation, she was awarded a job-guaranteed scholarship by the Turkish Ministry of Education to pursue postgraduate studies in Canada. She completed her Master of Applied Science in Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University in 2024, working in the Didar Lab, where she now continues her academic journey as a PhD student. Rana’s research focuses on developing innovative droplet-based microfluidic technologies for the advancement of cancer immunotherapies. Outside of research, she enjoys playing board games, attending film festivals, and making the most of good weather through activities like hiking, picnicking, and exploring nature. Whether she’s engaging in creative pastimes or doing her research, she is always excited to explore new ideas.

Hannah is a currently a PhD student in the Didar Lab, having previously received both her MASc in Chemical Engineering and an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering from McMaster. She works in the area of food safety, specifically on the development of DNA-based bacterial sensors for food packaging. She also works on phage-based food decontamination strategies. In her free time, Hannah’s hobbies include board games, sewing, and cross-country skiing.

Katya is a Ph.D. student in Chemical Engineering at McMaster University, specializing in biomaterials and bacteriophage-based technologies. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from Moscow Technological University and an Advanced Diploma in Biotechnology from Centennial College. Before beginning her Ph.D., she worked for several years in the biotech and cosmetic industries, leading microbiology teams and optimizing GMP-compliant testing workflows. Her current research focuses on microneedle-based delivery systems for intradermal administration of bacteriophages, with applications in acne treatment and skin healing. She is also developing rapid, low-cost phage screening tools to improve therapeutic matching for resistant infections. Outside the lab, she enjoys painting, board games, and caring for her ever-growing collection of house plants.

Justin is currently a PhD student, working on developing biohybrid phage microrobots for the treatment of bacterial infections. He completed his BSc in Molecular Biology from Wilfrid Laurier University and a thesis studying protein dimerization interactions of plant import proteins. Nearing the end of his undergraduate degree, he was awarded an NSERC USRA to study the stress tolerance profiles of Enterococcus, present within local stormwater management ponds. More recently, he was a research associate at the University of Waterloo, as a part of the COVID-19 surveillance program in Ontario. Outside of research, Justin is passionate about personal fitness, music, and sports such as swimming and rock climbing.

Qinglai is a Ph.D. student in Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University, specializing in bacteriophage-based technologies. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Beijing University of Chemical Technology and his master’s degree in Materials and Chemical Engineering from Fuzhou University. During his master’s studies, his research focused on downconversion near-infrared luminescence in rare-earth materials. Outside of research, Qinglai enjoys playing badminton, exploring good food, traveling, and playing video games.

Nevart is an instructor in the Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University, where she facilitates inquiry-based learning and supervises senior undergraduate research projects. Her doctoral research interests focus on developing biomedical engineering innovations for public health applications. In particular, she is exploring food sustainability through the development of biomaterials and biosensing technologies. Building on her background in health research and implementation science, she is passionate about translating engineering innovations into practical technologies that reduce waste, improve resource utilization, and support more sustainable food systems to advance population health.

Outside the lab, she enjoys mentoring students, learning languages, staying active, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Nevart holds an MSc in Global Health and BHSc (Honours) from McMaster University.

Pranav Kolavennu (he/him) graduated with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biochemistry from McMaster University. During his undergraduate studies, he conducted research in chemistry and chemical biology, focusing on the discovery of small molecule inhibitors of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). He is currently a graduate student within the Hosseinidoust and Didar Labs, where his research focuses on the development of antimicrobial sutures for the prevention of surgical site infections. His broader research interests include polymer chemistry, biomaterials and drug delivery systems for biomedical applications. Outside of the lab, Pranav enjoys playing squash and hockey, as well as cooking.

Abeer is a dedicated cardiac surgery resident and master’s student at McMaster University, holding an MBBS from Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Her passion for advancing cardiovascular care drives her pursuit of surgical innovation and research. With a background in transplant immunology, she joined Dr. Diadr’s lab to enhance patient outcomes through cutting-edge techniques.
Beyond her medical career, Abeer is an avid gamer who loves exploring virtual worlds, engaging in outdoor activities, and diving into captivating books. This balance between her professional and personal interests brings a dynamic energy to everything she does.

I received my bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science from York University, where I became deeply interested in interdisciplinary research. I’m currently pursuing a Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering at McMaster University, co-supervised in the Didar and Hildebrandt Labs. My research focuses on developing biosensors and drug delivery systems, with applications in food safety, human health, and women’s health. I’m passionate about using diagnostic tools to solve real-world health challenges. Outside of research, I enjoy cooking and exploring entrepreneurial ideas. Whether in the lab or the kitchen, I love finding creative ways to learn, grow, and make a positive impact.

Michelle joined the lab in May 2025, initially as a research student through a project course, and continued as a fourth-year undergraduate thesis student. They graduated with a BHSc in Biochemistry.
Michelle’s research focuses on developing a novel spray-dried powder formulation to enhance the stability and shelf life of bacteriophages for future biomedical and industrial applications.
Outside of the lab, Michelle enjoys playing the guitar, piano, and alto saxophone and is a member of the McMaster Concert Band. They were also heavily involved in McMaster’s iGEM team, a research group of undergraduate students that competes at the International Genetic Engineering Machine competition. Additionally, Michelle is a student mentor and Vice President Academic for the Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences Society.

Negar is a Master’s student in Biomedical Engineering. She joined the Didar Lab during her third year through a project-based research course and later continued her work in the lab through her senior thesis. She obtained her Bachelor of Health Sciences in the Biochemistry and Biomedical Research specialization. Her research focuses on the development and application of medical micro- and nanorobotics for therapeutic delivery. Outside of the lab, she enjoys watching old sitcoms.

Derin (she/her) is currently pursuing a BHSc in the Honours Biochemistry Biomedical Research Specialization Co-op Program. She originally joined the lab in the Spring of 2024 as a Wet Lab Lead for McMaster’s iGEM team. She kept her connection to the lab while serving as the iGEM 2025 Co-President, during which she was completing her co-op as a Medical Associate at Operatic Agency. She then went on to complete her undergraduate thesis focusing on microbots and phage therapy for infection control. Derin is now a lab assistant co-op student where she aids in lab management while continuing her research.

Cynthia is a second-year undergraduate student in the Health Sciences program. She joined the Didar lab in 2024, working under the supervision of Dr. Moghimikandelousi. She is particularly interested in exploring the intersection of engineering and biology to develop novel medical solutions, and her passion lies in leveraging innovative approaches to address various challenges in healthcare. In her free time, Cynthia enjoys listening to music, reading, and skating.

Zahra (she/her) is a fourth year undergraduate student in the Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences (iBioMed) program specializing in Health, Engineering Science and Entrepreneurship (HESE). She joined the Didar Lab in May of 2025. She is working on the phage stability microneedle (MN) project under the supervision of Akansha Prasad and Katya Kvitka. Zahra is passionate about applying biomedical engineering principles in clinical settings and is interested in developing therapeutic technologies. She looks forward to continuing to work at the Didar Lab and hopes to pursue a career in research. Outside of the lab, Zahra enjoys doing calligraphy, painting, tutoring, working out, and painting.

Parina Sharma is a third-year Honours Life Sciences student at McMaster University. She joined the Didar Lab in February 2025 as an undergraduate research volunteer and is currently working on the Food Project under the supervision of Akansha Prasad. Outside the lab, Parina stays busy with the MacSci Musical, watching movies, reading, crocheting, and spending time with friends and family.

Camila Gonzalez is a second year student in the Honours Chemical Biology Program. As an undergraduate research volunteer she currently works with Veronica Grignano and under the supervision of Akansha Prasad. She joined the Didar Lab in November 2025. Beyond academics you will find Camila spending her evenings writing away or looking for the next big trail to explore.

Tazeen is an undergraduate student in the Honours Integrated Science program. She joined the lab in September 2025 as a research student through a project course and will continue her work as a fourth-year undergraduate thesis student. Her research focuses on women’s health, with an emphasis on developing novel biotechnologies to address conditions such as endometriosis. Beyond the lab, Tazeen is actively involved in campus life. She serves as a Community Advisor, supporting students in their transition to university, and works as a Teaching Assistant for two first-year biology courses. In her free time, she enjoys playing the piano and painting.

Kamya (she/her) is a fourth-year student studying Biochemistry and pursuing a Minor in Math. She joined the Didar Lab in 2026 for a research project course over the summer, and will continue as a thesis student working on identifying foodborne pathogens using a phage-based colourimetric detection platform. Outside of the lab, Kamya enjoys watching TV, reading psychological thrillers and mystery books, as well as painting.

Sama is a third-year Software and Biomedical Engineering student in the Integrated Biomedical Engineering and Health Sciences (IBEHS) program at McMaster University. She joined the Didar Lab in May 2025 as an IBEHS Research Project Student and continued on as an Undergraduate Programming Assistant. Her work focuses on machine learning and app development, and she is passionate about building solutions at the intersection of AI, biomedicine, life sciences, and healthcare. Outside of academics, Sama enjoys learning languages, reading, and immersing herself in new cultures.

Maggie (she/her) is an undergraduate student in Engineering Physics and Biomedical Engineering. She is interested in biomedical and healthcare research. She is currently working with bacteriophages and food safety under the supervision of Hannah. In her free time, Maggie enjoys dancing, painting, and crocheting.

Kevin is a second-year student in the Biochemistry program. In the Didar Lab, he is working with the McMaster iGEM team to present their research at the annual iGEM Jamboree in Paris! Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing musical instruments like the piano and bass guitar.

Rinee is entering her third year in the Chemical Biology Co-op program. She is joining the Didar Lab as a member of McMaster’s iGEM team. Outside of the lab, she likes reading and playing the guitar.

Catherine (she/her) is entering her second year in Materials and Biomedical Engineering (iBioMed). She joined the Didar Lab in 2026 as a Wet Lab Member of McMaster iGEM. Her interests lie at the intersection of synthetic biology, innovation, and human connection. Outside of the lab, Catherine likes to travel, ski, and watch movies.

Lucie is a first-year Life Sciences student entering the Biochemistry program. In the Didar Lab, she is working with the McMaster iGEM team to present their research and compete at the annual iGEM Jamboree in Paris! Outside of the lab, she enjoys going on hikes, singing, and reading memoirs and old novels.

Akash is a first year Life Science student entering the Biochemistry program in his second year. In the Didar Lab, he is working alongside the rest of the iGEM team to conduct, and present research for the annual iGEM Jamboree in Paris. Outside of the lab, he enjoys playing sports, reading, and playing the violin.