🎓 Academic & Research Roles
PhD Researcher
Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia
2019 – Present
- Led interdisciplinary research on audiovisual cue effects on immersion during gambling and sports
- Conducted large-scale behavioral and eye-tracking studies (N=156)
- Developed predictive models (e.g., logistic, gamma-log-logistic regression) using R and Python
- Supervised and trained 15 undergraduate research assistants
- Synthesized findings for academic publications, clinical summaries, and public communication
MSc Researcher
Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research, McMaster University
2016 – 2018
- Studied stress reactivity and risky decision-making in individuals with gambling disorder
- Conducted behavioural experiments across three clinical populations (gambling, cannabis, eating disorders)
- Screened over a 100 people for a neurocognitive behavioural study
- Developed clinical handouts and digital resources for psychiatry residents
- Successfully defended dissertation; awarded SSHRC Award of Excellence
Research Assistant
UBC Centre for Gambling Research
2019 – 2021
- Supported a PET-fMRI pilot study on reward processing in gambling addiction
- Managed data collection, ethics documentation, and preliminary analysis in a multi-disciplinary team of scientists and technicians
- Developed and maintained SOP and other administrative documents
💼 Consulting & Strategy Projects
Development Lead
Neurotech Microcredential Program, NeurotechX
2022
- Co-led development of microcredential courses in neurotechnology and digital health
- Worked with educators, researchers, and instructional designers to shape content strategy
- Integrated learner-centered design with scientific rigor to enhance knowledge translation
Digital Tools for Gambling Support
Brain Connections, McMaster University
2016 – 2018
- Created 5+ digital/print resources translating clinical research into patient-friendly materials
- Aligned tone and clarity with counseling goals; used by clinicians in Ontario
Research SNAPS
McMaster University
2016 – 2017
- Co-led a university-wide social media initiative on science communication for research visibility (on X, previously Twitter)
- Authored technical report with actionable recommendations; project earned national recognition (SHRC Award 2017)
Independent Scientific Consulting
- Advised undergraduate students on poster design, analysis, study design, and data collection
- Offered editorial support and knowledge translation strategy for behavioural research teams
✍️ Knowledge Translation & Editorial Work
Co-Founder & Editor, NeuroPsyched Magazine
2019 – 2021
- Launched a digital neuroscience magazine for early-career researchers
- Edited 13+ articles; led social media and community engagement
Team Writer, Brainwaves @ McMaster
2016 – 2018
- Wrote feature articles on neuroscience research, including expert interviews
- Contributed to science outreach and campus engagement
🧰 Skills Snapshot
Research Methods
- fMRI, Eye-tracking, Behavioral Paradigms (TSST), Self-report Questionnaires (Qualtrics), Regression Modeling, ANOVA, Data cleaning and processing
Statistical & Technical Tools
- R, Python, SPSS, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Word
Science Communication
- Peer review coordination, Academic writing, Literature reviews, Manuscript editing, Blogging, Knowledge translation
Project Management
- Mentorship, REB applications, Editorial workflows, Stakeholder collaboration
🎓 Education & Certifications
- PhD (2025 expected) – Neuroscience, University of British Columbia
- MSc (2018) – Neuroscience, McMaster University
- BSc (hons) with Distinction (2015) – Neuroscience, University of Toronto Scarborough (Creative Writing minor)
Certifications:
- Certificate in Knowledge Mobilization (GREO, 2018)
- SSHRC Award of Excellence (2017)
Fiza Arshad 