Shayan joined the lab as a sophomore at UC Berkeley through the URAP Program. He is interested in learning more about the intersection between engineering, computational, and biological techniques, used to evaluate disc degeneration and treatment. 

Shayan works under Associate Specialist Mohamed Habib to isolate bovine discs in the lumbar region of the spine and subject them to various mechanical tests, in order to determine their properties before and after treatment. The goal is to enhance permeability of disc endplates and to strengthen the discs. 

Shayan plans on attending medical school after completing his undergraduate degree.