Arya Amir is a Vanier Scholar and a Ph.D. candidate in the interdisciplinary department of Systems Design at the University of Waterloo, specializing in Biomedical Engineering. Currently, he is dedicated to enhancing the understanding of the mechanics of soft biological tissues, which directly impacts human health and well-being through improved diagnostic tools, medical interventions, and the development of preventive measures and effective treatment strategies.

His contributions have earned him several honors and awards, including Graduate Research Studentship (UW, 2022), International Doctoral Student Award (UW, 2022), President's Graduate Scholarship (UW, 2023), Graduate Student Research Dissemination Award (UW, 2024), and the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship (2023). Notably, the Vanier Scholarship, valued at $150,000 and the highest doctoral scholarship in Canada, underscores his demonstrated leadership qualities alongside academic excellence. 

During his master's studies, Amiri was diagnosed with advanced-stage of lymphoma cancer, and he grasped this opportunity to act as a role model for his community once more by showing immense strength, resilience, and determination in his goals. He also enjoys reading books on self-improvement, leadership, investment, and psychology.