We are proud to spotlight Ali Zare Hosseinzadeh, a Ph.D. student working under the guidance of Professor Francesco Lanza di Scalea, who has been awarded the Structural Engineering Department Diversity Fellowship for the second consecutive year. This recognition honors his continued dedication to creating an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment within our department. Through impactful mentorship, meaningful research in nondestructive evaluation and structural health monitoring, and a commitment to fostering equity in both the lab and classroom, he exemplifies the spirit of the fellowship. Below, he shares his reflections on the award, his research, and his ongoing journey as a scholar, educator, and advocate for a more inclusive engineering community.
What does receiving the SE Department Diversity fellowship mean to you personally and academically?
Being awarded the SE Department Diversity Fellowship for the second time is both a privilege and a reminder of the impact of my contributions. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my efforts to support our students and help create a more inclusive environment within the department are effective. This fellowship serves as a reminder that the work we do every day is making a lasting impact. On a personal level, it reaffirms that my work is making a difference. It’s fulfilling to know that I am contributing to an environment where students feel supported, understood, and empowered to succeed. It motivates me to continue fostering a space where everyone feels comfortable and encouraged to be their best selves. Academically, this fellowship deepens my commitment to the department’s mission. It inspires me to keep growing in my research while seeking new opportunities to engage with and support my colleagues and students. Being part of such a collaborative and dynamic community is energizing, and I’m excited to continue contributing to its ongoing development. This fellowship is not only a recognition of past work but also an invitation to keep moving forward, push boundaries, and work to create a space where everyone can truly thrive.
Can you share a bit about your research or projects you are currently working on and how the fellowship has supported your work?
I am part of the Experimental Mechanics, NDE & SHM Laboratory, working under the supervision of Professor Francesco Lanza di Scalea. I am involved in various projects related to the nondestructive testing and health monitoring of structures and infrastructure. My current research focuses on developing high-speed rail inspection technologies, improving ultrasonic imaging methods, advancing non-contact sensing techniques, and developing wave-based approaches for structural monitoring and health assessment.
How does your research intersect with diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how do you bring those values into your work?
My research intersects with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) through the way I collaborate with others. I believe that diverse teams lead to more creative and effective solutions. I always try to ensure that all ideas are heard and valued. By actively encouraging different perspectives, I aim to achieve stronger outcomes in both research and teamwork. I have been greatly influenced by my supervisor, Prof. Lanza di Scalea, whose dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment has shaped how I approach both research and teaching. As an instructor for summer session courses and a teaching assistant in a variety of classes, I make it a priority to ensure that every student feels welcomed and supported. To me, research and teaching are deeply connected. Both benefit from a community where everyone feels encouraged to contribute and grow. Promoting diversity and inclusion is essential, not only for individual success but also for strengthening the academic community as a whole. By supporting our students and colleagues, we help create an environment that fosters innovation, resilience, and a more meaningful experience for everyone.
What has been the most rewarding experience for you as a PhD student at SE and UC San Diego so far?
The most rewarding part of my PhD experience in the Structural Engineering Department at UC San Diego has been the opportunity to work with skilled and knowledgeable professors and professionals in the field. Taking part in meaningful and challenging research has helped me grow both technically and personally. I have also appreciated being in a supportive and collaborative research environment that encourages new ideas and continuous learning. In addition, gaining hands-on teaching experience and working with motivated, thoughtful students has been especially meaningful. Helping them learn and grow while also building my own skills as a researcher and mentor has been a valuable part of my journey.
What are your long-term goals in Structural Engineering, and how do you see this fellowship contributing to your future plans?
My long-term goal in structural engineering is to develop practical solutions to open challenges in the field of structural health monitoring and nondestructive evaluation. I am particularly interested in creating reliable and effective strategies aimed at improving the safety and resilience of our infrastructure. Along the way, I’ve found real fulfillment in working with bright and motivated students – sharing ideas, supporting their learning, and growing through those experiences myself. This fellowship not only provides valuable support for attending conferences and presenting my research but also reinforces that I’m on a path aligned with my goals. It deepens my commitment to a career where research, innovation, and mentorship come together in a diverse and inclusive environment.