text: Parvin Shahrestani, assistant professor of biological science, joined Cal State Fullerton from Cornell University, where she was a National Institutes of Health Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Entomology. She earned her doctorate in biological sciences and bachelor’s degree in ecology and evolutionary biology from UC Irvine.
  Why did you pursue the opportunity to join the Titan community?
  I was attracted to CSUF’s dedication to serving the underrepresented, which is reflected among its students, faculty and staff, and also to the University’s success in the inclusion of women in science, which sets it apart from many other universities.
  What do you most look forward to now that you’re here?
  I look forward to forming productive and lasting relationships with other faculty and with students.
  What areas of continued scholarship and research are of particular interest to you?
  I’m fascinated by adaptive evolution, especially of health relevant traits, such as aging, heart disease and immunity.
  What are some of your outside activities, hobbies or interests?
  My hobbies include scuba diving, camping, dancing, listening to live music, and interacting with large groups of people.