Farbod Mohseni: Researcher, activist and DAAD prizewinner: Portrait of a committed scientist and freedom fighter

Farbod Mohseni, a 27-year-old doctoral student at the University of Kaiserslautern-Landau (RPTU), has been awarded the DAAD Prize 2023 for "Remarkable social or intercultural commitment, accompanied by outstanding academic achievements". Behind this young man is not only an aspiring researcher, but also a passionate activist who is committed to freedom in his home country of Iran.

Mohseni's journey into the world of science began with a Bachelor's degree in Cell Molecular Biology/Genetics at a university in the southern part of Iran between 2014 and 2018. His fascination with the diversity of the subject of genetics and the in-depth research in this field led him to choose the path of practical research instead of pursuing his original plan of becoming a doctor.

In search of practice: Farbod Mohseni's path to Germany

During his bachelor's degree, Mohseni realized that although the university in Iran was strong in the theoretical field, there was a lack of opportunities for practical work. His professors advised him to continue his studies in a country that was better established in this field. His love of genetics and the desire to get more involved in practical research eventually led him to Germany. After an intensive period of applications, he was finally accepted onto the Master's program in Molecular Cell Biology at the RPTU in Kaiserslautern. This offered him not only a broad theoretical basis, but also intensive practical experience, as he says: "Many of my friends at other universities, including in Germany, don't have so many practical courses in their degree programs. In Kaiserslautern, you work in different labs and research fields, which is very enriching."

Despite his initially limited experience in the lab, he soon mastered complex techniques in basic biochemistry, proteomics and immunofluorescence microscopy. During his Master's thesis, he focused on the question of how DNA damage that occurs during replication affects mitotic processes in human cells. He succeeded in identifying proteins that have the potential to repair DNA damage. He gave them the name "candidate proteins" and is currently continuing his work on them as part of his doctorate, which he started in January 2023.

Fascination for cancer research and commitment to teaching

"In this field of research, I am most interested in cancer research. This disease is one of the biggest concerns and challenges in the medical field worldwide. Since there is no drug that cures all forms of cancer, it is important to first understand how the cell works," explains Mohseni. 

The proteins that Mohseni discovered could have the potential to repair the damage to the DNA caused by cancer and thus stimulate the cell to heal itself. 

Since January 2023, Mohseni has not only advanced his research, but also taken on a new role - that of supervisor for other students. "It's a new experience to teach," he says, emphasizing that he wants to continue his work in the academic world to "work with young minds who want to discover the mysteries of biology".

Between a longing for home and a fight for freedom

Despite his scientific successes, Mohseni does not remain blind to the reality of his home country. He has been living in Germany since 2021 and has not visited Iran since, as the political situation and restrictions on personal freedoms make it unsafe to return. "It was hard to leave my home, friends and family to build my own life here," Mohseni admits, while at the same time positioning himself as a supporter of the Iranian freedom movement.

Together with other Iranian students, he founded a group that campaigns for human rights and freedom in Iran, the "Iranian Freedom Advocates", with Mohseni as its spokesperson. However, the group not only campaigns for the observance of human rights, but also calls for gender equality worldwide. To this end, it organizes cross-campus activities, such as the protest following the death of Mahsa Amini or the "Woman, Life, Freedom" event, and is active on social media.

Due to Mohseni's political activities in Germany, entering Iran could pose a great personal risk. Nevertheless, he and the other freedom fighters are prepared to take this risk in order to support their homeland and their families. In his own words, Mohseni explains: "But to be able to sleep peacefully at night, I at least need to know that I tried."

The DAAD Prize 2023 honors not only his scientific achievements, but also his impressive social commitment. Farbod Mohseni, a man who not only pushes the boundaries of science, but also actively stands up for the freedom and rights of his people, is undoubtedly an inspiring personality.