Mehdi Pasalar

Biography and Expertise of Mehdi Pasalar

Dr. Mehdi Pasalar stands at the forefront of a movement to revitalize and scientifically validate Persian medicine, one of the world’s most ancient and codified systems of health. As an Assistant Professor at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS), he has dedicated over a decade to systematically bridging the gap between historical wisdom and modern medical science. His work is a direct reflection of the 3rd WCTCIM’s motto pillar, “Knowledge Diversity,” showcasing how a rich medical heritage can contribute powerful solutions to today’s health challenges.

His expertise directly engages with the congress’s thematic axis, “Integration of TCIM into Health Systems.” Dr. Pasalar does not merely study Persian medicine as a historical artifact; he actively works to integrate its principles and practices into clinical research and public health frameworks. This approach is fundamental to achieving the goals of the Gujarat Declaration, which emphasizes the need for evidence and science in traditional medicine. Beyond his academic work, his collaborative spirit fosters important South-South dialogues, enriching the global understanding of diverse medical traditions.

Furthermore, the efforts of Mehdi Pasalar are crucial for building “Well-being Societies.” By exploring evidence-based, culturally resonant healthcare options, he contributes to a more holistic and person-centered vision of public health. His research into the history of medicine also provides valuable context, reminding the global community of the long and sophisticated evolution of medical thought outside of the conventional Western paradigm. Therefore, his presence at the congress strengthens the global conversation around sustainable and diverse healthcare models.

Professional Career and Leadership

Dr. Mehdi Pasalar‘s career at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS) shows a deep commitment to advancing research and education in traditional medicine. Since joining in 2015, he has taken on increasing responsibilities, shaping the field’s future. His career reflects his dual capacity as a rigorous scientist and strategic leader.

His combined roles as an educator and research administrator allow him to influence knowledge from its creation in clinical trials to its dissemination in the classroom. This involvement ensures future healthcare professionals are equipped with an evidence-based understanding of integrative medicine, leaving a lasting impact on SUMS.

• Vice-Chancellor for Research, Research Center for Traditional Medicine and History of Medicine: Dr. Pasalar oversees the strategic direction of research, fostering a productive environment, securing funding, and ensuring all studies meet high ethical and scientific standards.
• Assistant Professor, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (2015 – Present): He teaches and mentors students, cultivating an appreciation for Persian medicine grounded in historical context and modern scientific inquiry.
• Principal Investigator: As lead researcher on numerous projects, he is responsible for the design and execution of complex clinical studies, demonstrating his capacity to manage large-scale scientific endeavors.
• Decade of Experience: Over 10 years dedicated to Persian medicine, reflecting a profound commitment to developing this specialized area of healthcare.

Academic Foundations

The academic background of Dr. Mehdi Pasalar is uniquely structured to address the complex challenges of integrating traditional medicine into modern public health systems. His multidisciplinary training combines clinical expertise, a public health perspective, and specialized research skills, creating a powerful foundation for his pioneering work. This educational path has been instrumental in his ability to design studies that are both culturally sensitive and scientifically robust.

Each degree represents a critical building block in his capacity to lead in the field of integrative medicine. The combination of medical, public health, and specialized doctoral training allows him to navigate the worlds of clinical practice, policy-making, and academic research with equal proficiency. This holistic education is a model for the kind of training needed to develop future leaders in TCIM.

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Persian Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences: This specialized doctoral degree provided him with advanced research skills and deep theoretical knowledge of Persian medicine, enabling him to conduct high-level investigations into its principles and applications.
• Master of Public Health (MPH), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences: His MPH degree equipped him with the tools to understand health at a population level. This training is essential for translating clinical research findings into broader public health strategies and policies.
• Doctor of Medicine (MD), Shiraz University of Medical Sciences: His foundational medical degree provides him with the core clinical knowledge and understanding of pathophysiology necessary to safely and effectively study traditional interventions for a wide range of diseases.

Extensive Research and Scientific Contributions from Mehdi Pasalar

Dr. Mehdi Pasalar has established himself as a prolific and influential researcher, making substantial contributions to the evidence base for Persian and integrative medicine. His research portfolio is both broad and deep, demonstrating a systematic effort to investigate traditional interventions across a variety of health conditions. This commitment to rigorous inquiry directly supports the thematic axis, “Contributions of TCIM to Global Public Health (Evidence-Based).”

Having designed and conducted over 50 clinical studies, Dr. Pasalar has been a key driver in generating the data needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of traditional therapies. His success in securing governmental grants as a Principal Investigator underscores the national importance of his work and the confidence placed in his research capabilities. These studies are not isolated academic exercises; they are part of a larger strategy to build a credible foundation for integrative healthcare. Therefore, his work provides a tangible example of the Gujarat Declaration’s call for scientific validation.

Beyond conducting research, Mehdi Pasalar is dedicated to disseminating his findings to a global audience. With over 60 papers published in Scopus-indexed journals, his work has achieved international visibility and undergoes rigorous peer review. Publishing in such reputable outlets is crucial for establishing the legitimacy of Persian medicine within the global scientific community and ensuring that his findings can inform evidence-based practices worldwide. His active collaboration with researchers in other TCIM disciplines further enriches his work, fostering a more interconnected and comprehensive approach to global health.

Connect with Dr. Pasalar

For more detailed information on Dr. Mehdi Pasalar‘s research, publications, and professional activities, you can consult his official university profiles and other academic platforms. These resources offer a comprehensive look at his significant contributions to the field of Persian and integrative medicine.

Official Faculty Profile: View Profile at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences

Google Scholar Profile: Explore Publications on Google Scholar