Parastoo Mashouri is a PhD candidate in the Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences in the Neuromechanical Performance Research Lab run by Dr. Geoffrey Power at the University of Guelph, and is funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. Parastoo earned her honours degree in Kinesiology from York University before pursuing her Master’s and PhD at the University of Guelph, where she developed a keen interest in cellular biomechanics.

Parastoo’s doctoral research focuses on understanding the effects of gradual ovarian failure, a model for studying menopause, on skeletal muscle function. Her work involves investigating the contractile properties of skeletal muscles at the single fiber level as well as exploring morphological changes in muscles leading up to and following ovarian failure. By employing a chemically-induced ovarian failure model in mice, Parastoo’s work stands out for its ability to study time-course changes, offering insights into the perimenopause phase. This approach contrasts with the more common ovariectomy model, enabling a comprehensive understanding of estrogen’s role throughout different stages of menopause.

Parastoo’s research has significantly advanced the field of women’s health, particularly regarding skeletal muscle function throughout menopause. Her innovative approach and dedication to her field have established her as a prominent voice in this area of study.