Shirin Shoushtari

Where did you complete your undergraduate degree? 
Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, Iran
 
What motivated you to earn a graduate engineering degree? 
I decided to pursue a graduate degree because it would allow me to take on challenging coursework, engage with like-minded people and take part in cutting-edge research initiatives. I felt a passion for engineering research during my undergraduate studies and found myself looking for new ways to deepen my knowledge and comprehension of the subject. I adored the process of conducting research, figuring out difficult puzzles and expanding the boundaries of what was thought to be known in my profession. 
 
Please provide your lab and a description of research. 
I’m a member of the Computational Imaging Group (CIG Lab), which is supervised by Prof. Ulugbek Kamilov. The Computational Imaging Group researches the development of advanced algorithms and mathematical foundations for computational imaging, computer vision and image processing. Topics of interest include the acquisition, reconstruction and analysis of imaging data. 
 
What drew you to this area of research? 
My motivation is the advancement of computational imaging, which can result in breakthroughs in areas such as medical imaging, remote sensing and virtual reality.  
 
Why did you pick WashU? 
I picked WashU because of its great interdisciplinary research. 
    
Who is your favorite instructor and why? 
My favorite instructor is Prof. Kamilov. I enjoy his lectures and learn a lot from the creative environment of his class. 
 
What advice would you give to a new student?   
Don't be afraid to look into different research areas to find your passion. Attend talks and presentations by faculty and students. You’ll learn a lot. 
 
What is your favorite thing about St. Louis? 
I love the rich cultural landscape in St. Louis. I also enjoy occasional visits to its parks and museums. 
 
What campus activities or groups would you recommend to a new student? 
I recommend students attend the classes offered by WashU’s Sumers Recreation Center. Moreover, the Association of Graduate Engineering Students (AGES) gathers students together to communicate and get to know each other. 
 
What are your plans for the future? 
I aspire to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to my research area during my PhD and pursue a postdoctoral position to further expand my knowledge and expertise.  

Ultimately, my long-term goal is to secure a position in academia where I can actively engage in teaching, mentorship and independent research. I am driven by the desire to contribute to the advancement of knowledge, inspire future researchers and make a lasting impact in my field through my research and academic endeavors.