Sahar Ajabshir

Sahar Ajabshir has distinguished herself through her dedication to research, leadership and teaching.

Sahar, who earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from Azad University in Iran, obtained her master`s degree in dietetics and nutrition from FIU in 2013 before beginning her Ph.D. studies.

Her father suffers from diabetes, so her research has focused on the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes within different communities, based on their ethnic heritage and cultural practices. With a total of 14 papers, 26 abstracts and 20 presentations at regional and international conferences, Sahar has established herself as one of the foremost researchers in this nascent field. Her publications have been cited over 60 times by other researchers.

Sahar has taught more than 800 students while also overseeing the training of teaching assistants in the dietetics and nutrition department. An advocate for student success, Sahar served as the vice-president of the Student Government Association’s graduate and professional student committee and was directly involved in allocating funds for more than 1,000 of her peers to attend national and international conferences.

In addition to many awards and recognitions, Sahar served as a committee member for the FIU BeyondPossible2020 strategic plan and is active in national organizations such as the American Society for Nutrition. 

Last summer, Sahar`s accelerated pace came to an unexpected halt when she broke her femur. Despite the excruciating pain, surgery and lengthy rehabilitation, she is graduating on time with a 3.97 GPA. After graduation, she has her eyes set on the National Institutes of Health.