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Dr. Mirzaei hopes that his research will lead to more precise and effective immunotherapies for aggressive cancers like glioblastoma. 

 

How did you get into your area of research?

I have always been fascinated by immunology, particularly by the remarkable ability of immune cells to specifically recognize and eliminate cancer cells. This is a really unique feature that we can harness in cancer patients!

Ideally, we want cancer treatments that specifically recognize and kill cancer cells while minimizing effects on healthy cells. However, this is not the case with current frontline treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, which also damage normal cells.

Where did you study?

I completed my PhD in immunotherapy and immunology in cancer at Tehran University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Calgary with a focus on neuroimmunology and glioblastoma. I then became an Instructor and Senior Scientist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai before coming back to ¾ÅÐãÖ±²¥, joining the UofA in 2024.

How would you explain your current research to someone not in your field?

Glioblastoma is a primary brain tumour, meaning it originates in the brain, and not somewhere else in the body. It is the most aggressive and deadly type of brain tumour, being resistant to many therapies. Most patients do not survive one year past their initial diagnosis. My lab’s main goal is to activate the body's own immune system to fight against glioblastoma cells.

However, the environment surrounding glioblastoma, called the tumour microenvironment, is very unique and complicated. This means we have to develop new approaches. We are trying to find ways to introduce new treatments, or customize current treatments, to create better outcomes for patients.

Which elements of your work do you find the most rewarding?

Working in an area as complex and challenging as the brain is demanding, but it is also incredibly rewarding. Uncovering the intricate dynamics of the brain tumor microenvironment and using this knowledge to improve or develop new treatments for cancer patients is deeply fulfilling. Mentoring trainees is another aspect I find especially rewarding — they represent the next generation of scientists, and supporting their growth and curiosity is a privilege.

Additionally, collaborating with and learning from other researchers is something I greatly enjoy. Cancer is exceptionally complex, and overcoming its challenges requires collective effort, making these collaborations both essential and inspiring.

If you hadn’t become a researcher, what might you be doing?

I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I feel truly happy and fulfilled tackling difficult scientific questions and exploring complex biological environments like the brain. I deeply enjoy working with trainees, collaborating across different disciplines, and learning something new every single day. This constant challenge and discovery make research rewarding for me.

What's one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?

I make time to play a variety of group sports every other day. This keeps me physically active, energizes me, helps me manage my stress, and facilitates teamwork (which I value in sports, just as in research).

How has CRINA helped support your work?

Even though I've only been here for a short time, CRINA has been instrumental in fostering collaboration with other researchers. The valuable connections CRINA provides to other researchers and clinicians has helped me (and other CRINA members) close the gap between biomedical and clinical research. 

As well, they’ve provided financial resources for my own research program and funding opportunities for my trainees, as well as other support such as the seminar series, mentorship for grant applications, and various educational activities.