Amir Rad
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
During my undergraduate studies, I discovered that research gave me a unique sense of purpose. I was drawn to the constant challenges, the opportunity to solve meaningful problems, and the collaborative environment where ideas could grow into real solutions. Each project pushed me to think differently and exposed me to new technologies and perspectives. I realized that this process of exploration and discovery was something I wanted to continue at a deeper level. Pursuing a graduate degree allows me to build on this passion, develop expertise in wearable health technologies, and contribute to innovations that can improve lives.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I chose UBC because of its strong reputation for interdisciplinary research and innovation, particularly at the intersection of engineering, health, and technology. UBC offers access to world-class facilities, collaborative labs, and leading experts whose work closely aligns with my interests in wearable health monitoring and AI. The university’s supportive research culture and global outlook make it an ideal environment for researchers to grow and contribute to impactful healthcare solutions.
What is it specifically, that your program offers, that attracted you?
What drew me to my program was its strong emphasis on translating research into real-world impact. The School of Biomedical Engineering is deeply engaged in the “bench-to-bedside” and “lab-to-market” approach, which aligns closely with my goal of developing wearable technologies that can move from concept to clinical use. I was also attracted by the Innovation UBC programs, which offer a supportive pathway for students to connect their research with entrepreneurship and industry. In addition, the new Biomedical Engineering building, equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborative spaces, provides the ideal environment for carrying out cutting-edge research and fostering innovation.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
The best surprise about UBC and life in Vancouver has been the balance between a world-class academic environment and the natural beauty surrounding the city. I was amazed at how quickly I could go from working in research labs to enjoying the ocean, mountains, or forest trails. The diversity of people and perspectives at UBC also stood out to me, creating a welcoming community that fosters collaboration and new ideas.
What aspect of your graduate program do you enjoy the most or are looking forward to with the greatest curiosity?
What excites me most about my graduate program is the impact my research can have on people’s lives. I am looking forward to the day when patients and clinicians can use smart wearable devices as part of everyday care, making health monitoring seamless and accessible. The thought that my work could help improve the quality of life, enable earlier diagnoses, and support better treatment decisions is deeply motivating.
What do you see as your biggest challenge(s) in your future career?
One of the biggest challenges I see in my future career is translating advanced research into technologies that can be reliably adopted in real-world healthcare settings. Developing innovative AI-enabled wearable devices is only the first step — ensuring they are clinically validated, accessible, and trusted by both patients and clinicians requires overcoming regulatory, technical, and adoption barriers. Another challenge will be balancing the fast pace of technological innovation with the slower processes of healthcare integration.
With my program’s strong focus on “bench-to-bedside” and “lab-to-market,” I am gaining experience in designing technologies that meet clinical needs and align with regulatory standards. The Innovation UBC programs provide exposure to entrepreneurship and industry collaboration, which are essential for bringing wearable devices into practice. With these resources at hand, I'm well-equipped not only to conduct cutting-edge research but also to ensure that it has a meaningful and lasting impact on patients and clinicians.
What aspects of your life or career before now have best prepared you for your UBC graduate program?
Completing three master’s degrees gave me a solid foundation in research methodologies, critical thinking, and the ability to work across disciplines. My years in high-tech companies such as Apple exposed me to fast-paced innovation, problem-solving at scale, and the importance of designing technologies that are both user-centred and impactful. These experiences taught me resilience, adaptability, and how to navigate complex challenges.
What do you like to do for fun or relaxation?
I enjoy exploring Vancouver’s natural beauty through hiking, cycling, and spending time by the ocean. I also enjoy cooking and experimenting with new recipes, which provides a creative outlet outside of research. Music and reading are important ways for me to unwind, and I make time to connect with friends and family to recharge.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
As someone who has completed three master’s degrees and worked in high-tech companies such as Apple for several years, I have learned that graduate school is about much more than coursework and research. My advice to new graduate students is to embrace curiosity and take full advantage of the opportunities around you. Graduate studies give you the rare chance to work at the frontiers of knowledge, so don’t hesitate to ask questions, seek mentorship, and collaborate widely. The UBC community is rich with diverse expertise, and building those connections can open doors far beyond the lab. At the same time, remember that success comes from balance, take care of your health, enjoy the vibrant life Vancouver has to offer, and allow yourself time to recharge.
Learn more about Amir's research
Chronic diseases and health conditions are among the leading global challenges, and there is a critical need for tools that can provide continuous, non-invasive, and accessible health monitoring. Wearable technologies have the potential to transform healthcare by moving it from the clinic to daily life, enabling early detection and preventive care.
My research focuses on developing next-generation AI-enabled multimodal wearable devices that integrate electrophysiology, spectroscopy, and advanced biosensing technologies. By integrating these technologies with machine learning, I aim to design systems that can capture multiple physiological signals in real time and translate them into meaningful health insights. Ultimately, my goal is to build wearable platforms that support personalized healthcare, improve disease management, and empower individuals to take a proactive role in their health.
