معرفی
Massooma Pirbhai is an Assistant Professor in the Physics Department at St. Lawrence University, where she has been teaching since 2020. Her academic work bridges physics and biological systems, with a strong focus on nanoscale applications in neuroscience.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Physics, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA
- M.S. in Physics, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA
- B.S. in Mathematics with Physics minor, Angelo State University, San Angelo, TX
Her research centers on the development of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT)-based nanosensors to guide neural stem cell differentiation into neurons and astrocytes. She investigates the biophysical interactions between SWCNTs and cells, aiming to model these mechanisms to support therapies for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The unique electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and neuron-like morphology of SWCNTs make them a promising tool in neural regeneration and biomedical engineering.
Dr. Pirbhai teaches a wide range of undergraduate courses including University Physics, Modern Physics, and Physical Biology & Medicine. She also supervises independent studies and senior honors research projects, indicating active engagement in student mentorship and undergraduate research development.
She has not received any mentioned scientific awards in the provided text.
Dr. Pirbhai advises undergraduate research through Independent Study and SYE (Senior Year Experience) Honors Research courses, demonstrating her commitment to mentoring students in experimental and theoretical projects. While specific grants are not listed, her research program likely involves external funding to support nanomaterial and biophysics experimentation.
Her laboratory work involves interdisciplinary research at the interface of physics, materials science, and cell biology, likely conducted in collaboration with undergraduate researchers in a campus-based biophysics or nanoscience lab environment.
