Hoda Shamsnajafabadi

Hoda is an accomplished scientist with a strong background in Cellular and Molecular Biology, specializing in optogenetic gene therapies for retinal diseases. She earned her M.Sc. from the National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB) in Tehran, Iran, where her research focused on neural differentiation of human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. As a Research Assistant at NIGEB, she played a pivotal role in establishing spontaneously immortalized human RPE cell lines, gaining valuable expertise in cellular modeling.

In 2015, Hoda began her Ph.D. studies in the Molecular Medicine Department at NIGEB, where she developed innovative optogenetic tools to restore the "ON" switch in retinal degenerative diseases. Her groundbreaking work contributed to advancing the understanding of potential gene therapies for vision restoration. In 2021, she was awarded a prestigious research fellowship to complete her Ph.D. studies in Professor Fabio Benfenati’s laboratory at the Neuroscience and Smart Materials Department of the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Genoa, Italy.

During her Ph.D., Hoda expanded her research to include the control of neural differentiation in engineered retinal epithelial cells and stem cells. Her interdisciplinary work demonstrated a strong command of both basic and applied sciences in retinal biology and neuroengineering.

In 2022, Hoda joined Dr. Jasmina Kapetanovic's lab group, where she continues to advance the field by developing integrated optogenetics and CRISPR-based techniques for the treatment of retinal degeneration. Her current research holds great promise for tackling complex degenerative conditions and exemplifies her dedication to innovative therapeutic strategies.

Hoda's career reflects a deep commitment to translational science, combining cutting-edge methodologies with a vision to improve outcomes for patients with retinal diseases.