Dr. Rahmani's research looks at how various complex fluids move through porous materials using artificial intelligence and network modeling. This innovative approach will improve the accuracy and efficiency of flow predictions and lead to advancements in theoretical and practical applications.
Research topic
Research Description
Porous materials are substances that have tiny holes or spaces within them, allowing liquids or gases to pass through. This research focuses on studying how various complex fluids move through porous materials by developing artificial intelligence (AI) and network models. Traditional models have effectively described simple fluids, like water, which flow consistently regardless of the applied force. However, many natural and industrial fluids, such as blood, polymers, and slurries, behave differently. These fluids, known as non-Newtonian fluids, change their flow characteristics under different stresses, making them harder to predict and model. Understanding these complex fluids is crucial for applications in groundwater management, medical diagnostics, drug delivery, and materials processing.
Traditional methods often fail to capture the intricate behaviours of these fluids within porous structures. For example, certain non-Newtonian fluids can create specific pathways while blocking others, affecting the porosity of the material. Our research aims to overcome these challenges by combining AI with network modelling. AI will help predict and analyze the flow behaviours of non-Newtonian fluids using physical data, while network modelling will simulate the detailed interactions within porous materials. This innovative approach promises to improve the accuracy and efficiency of flow predictions, leading to significant advancements in both our theoretical understanding and practical applications. The results of this research will benefit various fields and industries, including environmental protection, healthcare, and manufacturing, enhancing Canada's scientific and technological capabilities. For example, the knowledge gained can aid in protecting water resources from surrounding contaminants, reducing carbon dioxide and methane emissions by effectively sealing repurposed reservoirs, and developing enhanced and targeted drug delivery methods, among other applications.
Why did you decide to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship at UBC? Did you consider other opportunities?
UBC is a highly reputable university and home to many distinguished experts across various fields. In particular, the UBC Complex Fluids Lab (CFL) is recognized worldwide as a leader in the study of complex fluids. Since my research interests align closely with modeling complex fluids, I decided to apply for a postdoctoral fellowship at CFL. Therefore, I did not consider any other opportunities when applying for my postdoctoral position.
What specifically attracted you to your research group?
The primary reason for joining the UBC Complex Fluids Laboratory (CFL) and continuing my Banting research here is the laboratory’s substantial scientific expertise and leadership in the field of non-Newtonian flow modeling. CFL is led by distinguished scholars in non-Newtonian fluid mechanics, including Professors Ian A. Frigaard and Neil J. Balmforth. My current supervisor, Professor Frigaard, is a leading contributor to the modeling of viscoplastic flow dynamics across various configurations and applications. Working at CFL under his supervision has been an excellent opportunity for me to deepen my knowledge and enhance my expertise in non-Newtonian flow modeling.
What advice do you have for new postdoctoral fellows?
I advise new postdoctoral fellows to stay focused on their research and actively pursue every opportunity without hesitation. Rejections should not be seen as failures but rather as potential stepping stones toward greater success. Remain hopeful, persistent, and dedicated to your work. Perseverance is often the key to achieving your goals.
What do you like to do for fun?
I sometimes play the piano and have a deep passion for music. I often think that if I were not in science, I might have pursued a career as a professional musician. Nevertheless, I still hope that, at some point, I will be able to play the piano professionally and perform. I also enjoy sports, particularly soccer, volleyball, tennis, and working out at the gym. In addition, I enjoy reading books on philosophy, psychology, history, physics, and economics.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of your postdoctoral fellowship?
I feel very fortunate to work under the supervision of Professor Frigaard. Beyond being a world-renowned expert in his field, he is an exceptionally kind, supportive, and inspiring mentor. His guidance has greatly enriched my research journey and has had a profound impact on both my professional growth and personal development.
What are the biggest challenges you have faced, or anticipate facing, in your career?
As a postdoctoral fellow aspiring to build an academic career, I find that securing the right faculty position is both one of the most challenging and most defining milestones. It requires not only academic excellence and a strong research vision but also perseverance and resilience throughout the process.
What in your life or career has prepared you for this position?
I believe my academic journey has been a long and rewarding one, beginning with my elementary and high school studies and continuing through my university education. This path would not have been possible without the unwavering support and guidance of my parents, whose encouragement has always been my greatest source of strength. I would also attribute much of my progress to the invaluable mentorship of inspiring teachers, the dedication of exceptional professors, and my own deep passion for science. All these have shaped my path and continue to fuel my aspirations.
What does receiving this award mean for your career?
The Banting Fellowship is one of the most prestigious and highly competitive awards, and I am truly honored to have received it. Beyond providing two years of financial support that allow me to dedicate myself fully to my research, this fellowship represents a strong recognition of my potential as an early-career researcher. It highlights my ability to secure competitive funding, lead innovative projects, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of science. Moreover, the Banting Fellowship strengthens my capacity to mentor and train highly qualified personnel, which is an essential part of my long-term goal of establishing an independent research program and building a dynamic, collaborative laboratory.
What do you think the next step in your career will be?
As the next step in my career, I aspire to secure a faculty position at a leading institution where I can establish my own research group, conduct high-impact research in my field, and train highly qualified personnel. My goal is to mentor and guide the next generation of scientists, helping them develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make meaningful contributions to society.