The Cardiovascular Research Trainee of the Year Award celebrates outstanding research excellence by a trainee in the Ottawa region who is actively contributing to the field of cardiovascular science. Recognizing achievements from April to March each year, this award highlights a trainee who has demonstrated exceptional productivity, innovation, and impact in their research.
Congratulations to Javad Heshmati a postdoctoral fellow at UOHI. He is being recognized for his exceptional contributions to cardiovascular research, particularly in smoking and vaping cessation. Since joining Dr. Hassan Mir’s lab in January 2024 as a postdoctoral fellow, Dr. Heshmati has demonstrated extraordinary productivity, leadership, and impact.
In just one year, he has published over 10 peer-reviewed articles—with many more in progress—and led the first systematic review and meta-analysis on vaping cessation interventions, published in BMJ Tobacco Control. His work has directly influenced national clinical guidelines, including his role as a co-author on the Canadian Cardiovascular Society’s upcoming Clinical Practice Update on Smoking Cessation.
Dr. Heshmati’s research has been widely disseminated through high-profile presentations at national and international conferences, and his findings are already shaping clinical tools and protocols. He is also the recipient of the prestigious CIHR Health System Impact Fellowship, supporting his development of a comprehensive vaping cessation strategy.
Beyond his research, Dr. Heshmati has mentored multiple graduate and medical students, helping them publish and present their work, and has played a key role in expanding his lab’s research capacity and collaborations. His dedication, mentorship, and scholarly excellence make him a standout leader in the cardiovascular research community.