TUMS (Tehran University of Medical Sciences)

Vice Chanceller for Scientific Affairs of Al-Subtain University International Branch of Tehran University of Medical Sciences

Al Subtain University for Medical Sciences (SUMS), Iraq's leading medical institution, is dedicated to fostering excellence in education, research, and healthcare services. Established to redefine medical training, SUMS provides a world-class academic environment.

Dr.Mahdi Shafiee Sabet

As Vice Chancellor for Scientific Affairs, my vision is to position Subtain University as a distinguished center of excellence in medical education and transformative research. I am dedicated to advancing an academically rigorous, student-centered environment that integrates early clinical exposure with vertically aligned curricula. My mission is to harmonize basic sciences with clinical practice through innovative, evidence-based, and technology-enhanced educational strategies. I seek to promote pioneering research in neuroscience, cognitive science, and neurorehabilitation with meaningful societal impact. A key priority is the integration of digital health and artificial intelligence to elevate research quality and healthcare delivery. I am committed to fostering a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration and nurturing the next generation of physician-scientists and academic leaders. Through the establishment and strengthening of specialized research centers, I aim to drive innovation in priority health domains. Ultimately, I endeavor to align education, research, and clinical excellence to improve human health and contribute to global scientific advancement.

Academic Degree Associate Professor, PhD

Specialization Neurologist / Specialist in Nervous System Disorders

Email [email protected]

Vice Chanceller for Scientific Affairs

Al-Sibtain University (SUMS), Iraq (Current)

(Current)

Associate Professor of Neurological Disorders (TUMS)

Tehran University of Medical Sciences (Iran)

(2019-Present)

Family Medicine Department

School of Medicine( Medical Students), Tehran University of Medical Sciences (Iran)

(2019-Present)

Neuroscience Department

Neuroscience Students, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (Iran)

(2013-Present)

Neuroanatomy (TUMS)

Medical Students, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (Iran)

(2010-Present)

Research Activities

Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Research Center As Founder and Head of the Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Research Center at Subtain university, I have envisioned and established a platform dedicated to advancing excellence in autism research, education, and care. Through strategic collaboration with Subtain Institutions, we initiated a transformative Autism Mega Project to address critical gaps in knowledge and practice. This initiative has not only generated impactful scientific contributions in high-ranking journals but has also built sustainable capacity through the training of specialized fellows in Autism Management. Our vision extends beyond research output to shaping a new model of integrated, interdisciplinary, and culturally responsive care in neurodevelopmental sciences. We are committed to pioneering innovative approaches by integrating neuroscience, digital health, and emerging technologies into autism research and clinical practice. The Center stands as a growing hub for intellectual exchange, scientific innovation, and regional leadership in neurodevelopmental disorders. Looking forward, we aspire to expand our global engagement and lead collaborative, high-impact research initiatives across borders. We warmly invite distinguished institutions and researchers worldwide to join us in co-creating the future of autism research, innovation, and care.

Epilepsy Clinic As part of our commitment to advancing specialized neurological care, I led the founding and establishment of the Epilepsy Clinic at Al-Hadi Center, an affiliated clinical center of Subtain University. This initiative was designed to address the growing need for comprehensive, evidence-based care for patients with epilepsy in the region. The clinic provides an integrated model of care, combining advanced diagnostic approaches, individualized treatment strategies, and long-term patient follow-up. In parallel, it serves as a platform for clinical training and research, supporting the development of expertise in epilepsy management among healthcare professionals. By aligning clinical services with academic and research activities, the clinic contributes to improving patient outcomes and expanding scientific knowledge in the field of epilepsy. This establishment represents an important step toward strengthening specialized neurological services and fostering innovation within Subtain University and its affiliated centers.

Neuromuscular Research Center As Founder and Head of the Neuromuscular Research Center at Subtain University, I established this center with the vision of advancing excellence in the understanding, diagnosis, and management of neuromuscular disorders. In close collaboration with Al-Hadi Center for Neuromuscular Disorders—an affiliated clinical center of Subtain University—we have created a unique model that bridges research, clinical care, and education. This partnership has enabled the development of integrated, patient-centered approaches while fostering high-quality translational research. A major milestone of this collaboration has been the successful organization of two prestigious international conferences on neuromuscular disorders, bringing together leading experts, researchers, and clinicians from across the region and beyond. These conferences have served as a platform for scientific exchange, capacity building, and the dissemination of cutting-edge knowledge in the field. Our mission is to promote interdisciplinary research, enhance clinical competencies, and develop innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neuromuscular diseases. We are committed to leveraging advances in neuroscience, rehabilitation, and emerging technologies to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Looking ahead, we aspire to expand our international collaborations and position the center as a leading hub for neuromuscular research and innovation, welcoming partnerships that drive impactful and future-oriented scientific endeavors.

Neuroscience Student Club As part of our commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals, I initiated and established the Neuroscience Student Club at Subtain University. This platform was designed to engage students from the colleges of medicine, nursing, and rehabilitation in a dynamic and interdisciplinary learning environment. The club serves as a hub for organizing scientific events, hands-on workshops, and student-led research activities in the field of neuroscience. Through these initiatives, students are encouraged to explore the integration of neuroscience concepts into clinical practice and healthcare innovation. Our aim is to cultivate critical thinking, creativity, and research-oriented mindsets among students at an early stage of their academic journey. By fostering collaboration across disciplines, the club empowers students to develop a holistic, neuroscience-informed approach to patient care. It also provides opportunities for mentorship, academic growth, and active participation in scientific discourse. Ultimately, the Neuroscience Student Club aspires to inspire future leaders who will drive innovation and excellence in neuroscience and healthcare.

Field Visits

A visual journey through the recent field visits and strategic engagements of the Scientific Vice President.

Latest News

2026-05-04 Student Activities

Advancing Research for Better Healthcare

As Vice Chancellor for Scientific Affairs, Dr. Mahdi Shafiee Sabet believes that research projects are a cornerstone of health promotion and the advancement of healthcare systems. Through supporting scientific research, innovation, and evidence-based projects, the vision is to create meaningful progress in medical knowledge, improve patient care, and contribute to a healthier and more informed society.

2026-05-04 University News

Dr. Mahdi is committed to a vision of promoting healthcare

As Vice Chancellor for Scientific Affairs, Dr. Mahdi Shafiee Sabet is committed to a vision of promoting healthcare through the education of ethical, knowledgeable, and capable doctors. Believing that scientific excellence must be combined with professionalism, compassion, and responsibility, this vision aims to build a stronger healthcare system and a healthier future for the community.

2026-05-04 Scientific Research

Managing complex epilepsy cases with a precise scientific approach

Managing complex epilepsy cases with a precise scientific approach, advanced clinical evaluation, and patient-centered care — striving for the highest standards of treatment and a high level of patient satisfaction. Every challenging case is an opportunity to combine knowledge, experience, and compassion to improve quality of life and provide hope for patients and their families.

2026-04-29 Scientific Research

Visiting patients with neurological disorders at the Integrated Neurorehabilitation Center

Visiting patients with neurological disorders at the Integrated Neurorehabilitation Center, in Al-Subtain University, the international branch of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, where comprehensive rehabilitation services are provided through a multidisciplinary approach including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Dr. Mahdi Shafiee Sabet believes that integrated neurorehabilitation plays a vital role in improving patients’ functional abilities, independence, communication skills, and overall quality of life through personalized and compassionate care.

2026-05-01

Honored to contribute to the education and training of specialists in the field of Autism management fellowship through teaching

Honored to contribute to the education and training of specialists in the field of Autism management fellowship through teaching, mentorship, and clinical guidance. Empowering future educators and healthcare professionals is an essential step toward improving Autism care, advancing management strategies, and strengthening our healthcare system for the benefit of children, families, and the community. Every dedicated educator plays a vital role in building a more knowledgeable, compassionate, and effective future for Autism services.

2026-02-18

Proud to announce the establishment of the Epilepsy Clinic at Al-Hadi Center by Dr. Mehdi Shafiee Sabet

Proud to announce the establishment of the Epilepsy Clinic at Al-Hadi Center by Dr. Mehdi Shafiee Sabet — dedicated to delivering advanced, modern care for patients living with epilepsy. This clinic was founded with a vision to provide comprehensive diagnosis, state-of-the-art treatment approaches, personalized care plans, and continuous support for epileptic patients and their families. A new step toward better neurological care, improved quality of life, and brighter hope for our community.

Academic Experience

Instructor, Anatomy and Neuroscience Group, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2010-present). Teaching Neuroanatomy and Neuroscience courses to medical and graduate students.

Assistant Professor, Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2020-2025). Involved in teaching, clinical training, and curriculum development within the Family Medicine program.

Instructor, Neuroscience Group, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2013-present). Teaching Neuroendocrinology courses focused on the neurobiological regulation of endocrine functions.

Founder and Director, Neurology Clinic, Arash Hospital (Affiliated Teaching Hospital, TUMS) (Established 2014). Established and supervised a specialized neurology clinic within Arash Hospital, a leading referral center in obstetrics and gynecology.

Associate Professor, Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2025-present).

Vice Chancellor for Scientific Affairs, International Branch of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iraq (2022-present). Contributed to the establishment of TUMS International Branch in Iraq; overseeing academic and research development.

Research Infrastructure Development, TUMS International Branch, Iraq. Founded six research centers: Autism Megaproject; Medical Education and Digital Learning Department; Mass Gathering Studies Center; Substance Abuse and Addiction Research Center; Epilepsy Research Center; Neuromuscular Diseases Research Center.

Scientific Publications

Inquiry: A Journal of Medical Care Organization, Provision and Financing (2026)

Mansoureh Yari Eili, Fatemeh Hajialiasgari, Mohammad Hossein Roozbahani, Jalal Rezaeenour, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, et al. Analysis of Patients' Mobility Patterns: Insights From a Process Mining-Based Longitudinal Study. 63:1-14.

International Journal of Methods in Psychiatric Research (2025)

Ruaa Raoof Hussein Al-Sultan, Shatha Mohammed Jasim, Faris Lami, Osamah Abbas Jaber, Nahid Dehghan Nayeri, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (senior authorship), Ghaith Al-Gburi. Translation and Validation of the Arabic Version of the Revised Restrictive Behaviours Scale Among Iraqi Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Suggestion for Model Modification. 34(4):e70048.

International Journal of Methods in Psychiatric Research (2025)

Mais Najah Razak Al-Shibly, Ali Hussein AlHusseiny, Faris Lami, Shatha Mohammed Jasim, Osamah Abbas Jaber, Nahid Dehghan Nayeri, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (senior authorship), Ghaith Al-Gburi. Psychometric Properties of an Arabic Modified Childhood Autism Rating Scale 2 Standard Form. 34(4):e70047.

BMC Psychology (2025)

Poursoleiman Leila, Rooddehghan Zahra, Bahramnezhad Fatemeh, Shafiee Sabet Mahdi, Dehghan Nayeri Nahid. Perceived experiences of adults with mild cognitive impairment: a qualitative study. 13(1):634.

BMJ Open (2025)

Mehraban Shahmari, Alvisa Palese, Fatemeh Bahramnezhad, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Nahid Dehghan Nayeri. Development and psychometric evaluation of a safety instrument for patients with cognitive impairment in hospital: an exploratory sequential mixed-methods study protocol in Iran. 15(10):e102299.

BMC Psychology (2025)

MA Saeed, OA Jaber, F Lami, SM Jasim, ND Nayeri, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (senior authorship), et al. Awareness of autism spectrum disorder among public primary school teachers in Iraq. 13(1):1075.

Nutrition Reviews (2025)

Davood Jahanmehr, Alireza Ahmadi, Mohammadmahdi Fadaei, Amirhossein Sangi Nasab Lahijan, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, et al. The Ketogenic Diet: A Possible Intervention for Improving Hippocampal Function in Neurological Disorders. nuaf210.

Frontiers in Psychiatry (2025)

HQK Al-Juhaishi, OA Jaber, F Lami, SM Jasim, ND Nayeri, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (senior authorship), et al. Risk factors for low knowledge and negative attitudes among caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder in Iraq: a multi-center cross-sectional study. 16:1568467.

Frontiers in Psychiatry (2025)

A Kamil Toman, H Raoof Abdulrasool, F Lami, S Mohammed Jasim, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (senior authorship), et al. Exploring co-occurring conditions in Iraqi children with autism spectrum disorder: prevalence, characteristics, and potential risk factors. 16:1592374.

Frontiers in Psychiatry (2025)

N Kadhim Nayyef, S Mohammed Jasim, F Lami, O Abbas Jaber, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (senior authorship), et al. Patterns of needs among Iraqi families caring for children with autism spectrum disorder: a cross-sectional study. 16:1562083

International Journal of Qualitative Methods (2025)

Z Jafaryparvar, F Bahramnezhad, F Hajibabaee, MS Sabet, et al. Explaining the Concept of Palliative Care in Patients With Stroke, Development and Validation of a Questionnaire: A Mixed-Method Study Protocol. 24:16094069251352052.

Archives of Academic Emergency Medicine (2025)

Shayan Alijanpour, Fatemeh Bahramnezhad, Ashkan Mowla, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Nahid Dehghan Nayeri. Updated Protocol for Stroke Code Management in Prehospital Settings: The Iranian Comprehensive Stroke Code Management Program (ICSCM Phase II). 13(1):e43.

Autism (2025)

Raghad AbdulKareen Abdoun Al-Janabi, Zainab Ali Saleem, Faris Lami, Osamah Abbas Jaber, Shatha Mohammed Jasim, Nahid Dehghan Nayeri, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (senior authorship), Ghaith Al-Gburi. Demographic, ecological and social predictors of quality of life among parents of autistic children: A multi-centre cross-sectional study.

Jundishapur Journal of Chronic Disease Care (2025)

Samira Poursaleh, Nahid Dehghan Nayeri, Farnaz Khatami, Atieh Bakhshi, Nasim Ebadati Nakhjiri, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (corresponding author). Investigating the Effect of COVID-19 Vaccination on the Course of Disease and Recurrence of Attacks in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis. 14(1):e154203.

Hayat (2024)

F Bahramnezhad, M Shafiee Sabet, N Dehghan Nayeri. Qualitative interviews in cognitive disorders caused by dementia: Addressing methodological, ethical challenges (Part II). pp. 213-221.

Archives of Microbiology (2024)

Fahimeh Salasar Moghaddam, Mobina Tabibian, Moloud Absalan, Gholamreza Tavoosidana, Mohammad Hossein Ghahremani, Nasrollah Tabatabaei, Mansoreh Abdolhosseini, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Elahe Motevaseli. Comparative analysis of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 ghosts quality: a study of two chemical methods. 206(9):386

BMC Neurology (2024)

Kourosh Farzin, Azita Kheiltash, Abbas Tafakhori, Nasim Ebadati Nakhjiri, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (corresponding author), Nahid Dehghan Nayeri. The effectiveness of agomelatine on headache severity and frequency in episodic migraine without aura; a parallel randomized controlled trial study. 24(1):2.

Shiraz E-Medical Journal (2024)

Nahid Dehghan Nayeri, Kourosh Farzin, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (corresponding author), Abbas Tafakhori. The study protocol for assessing the effectiveness of agomelatine on headache severity and frequency in episodic migraine without aura; a parallel randomized controlled trial.

Hayat (2024)

Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Bahramnezhad F., Nayeri N.D. The role of qualitative interviews in cognitive disorders caused by dementia: Methodological ethical challenges (Part I). 29(4):343-347.

Systematic Reviews in Pharmacy (2024)

Amir Monfaredan, Fakher Rahim, Gholamreza Tavoosidana, Mohammad Hossein Modarressi, Alaviyehsadat Hosseininasab, Ali-Akbar Aghajani-Afrouzi, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Elahe Motevaseli. Imatinib Loaded Body Fluids Derived Exosomes Using Microfluidics System: An In Vitro Analysis. 15(3).

Systematic Reviews in Pharmacy (2023)

Amir Monfaredan, Fakher Rahim, Gholamreza Tavoosidana, Mohammad Hossein Modarressi, Ali-Akbar Aghajani-Afrouzi, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Elahe Motevaseli. The Downregulation of LGALS3 Gene Expression Can Stimulate the Release of Exosomes in the JKB1 Cell Line. 14(11).

Payesh (2023)

Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Vahedi S., Bahramnezhad F., Nayeri N.D. Investigating the relationship between presentism and resilience of critical care nurses of hospitals. 22(6):727-735.

Journal of Isfahan Medical School (2023)

Asadi F.F., Abolghasemi S., Mahdi Shafiee Sabet (corresponding author). The Effects of Spiritual Intelligence Training on the Quality of Life and Happiness of Medical Students. 41(727):575-583.

Tehran University Medical Journal (2023)

Ranji S., Shahbazi M., Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Tafakhori A. Effects of deep brain stimulation in a patient with chronic refractory pain: a case report. 81(4):319-322.

Caspian Journal of Neurological Sciences (2022)

Pargol Balali, Seyedeh Sajedeh Marashi, Elmira Agah, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Aghamollaii, Tafakhori A. Safety and Efficacy of Memantine in Improving Cognitive Function of Patients with Epilepsy. 8(4):197-205.

Neurodiagnostic Journal (2022)

Babak Ghelichnia, Pargol Balali, Ghasem Farahmand, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Somaye Feizi, Bahareh Pourghaz, Melika Jameie, Abbas Tafakhori. Effects of Botulinum Toxin Injection on Reducing Myogenic Artifacts during Video-EEG Monitoring: A Longitudinal Study. 62(4):222-238.

Journal of Vessels and Circulation (2021)

Mahdi Shafiee Sabet. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined with Intensive Conventional Rehabilitation for Chronic Stroke Hemiplegia: A Case Series Study.

Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology (2020)

Marbouti L., Zahmatkesh M., Riahi E., Mahdi Shafiee Sabet. GnRH protective effects against amyloid beta-induced cognitive decline: A potential role of the 17beta-estradiol. 518:110985.

Advances in Biosciences & Clinical Medicine (2017)

Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, M. H. Harirchian. The Different Effects of Endogenous and Exogenous Hormones on Cerebrovascular Diseases.

Razi Journal of Medical Sciences (2017)

Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Behnam Shariati. Neurobiological pathways of mania: a three-case report and literature review.

Human Psychopharmacology (2014)

Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, Farokhnia M., et al. Comparing the efficacy and safety of Crocus sativus L. with memantine in patients with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease: A double-blind randomized clinical trial. 29(4):351-359.

Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics (2010)

Shahin Akhondzadeh, Mahdi Shafiee Sabet, MH Harirchian, M Togha, H Cheraghmakani, S Razeghi, S Sh Hejazi, MH Yousefi, R Alimardani, A Jamshidi, F Zare, A Moradi. Saffron in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: A 16-week, randomized and placebo-controlled trial. 35(5):581-588.

Journal of Human Psychopharmacology (2010)

Shahin Akhondzadeh, Mehdi Shafiee Sabet, Mohammad Hossein Harirchian, Mansoreh Togha, Hamed Cheraghmakani, Soodeh Razeghi, Seyyed Shamssedin Hejazi, Mohammad Hossein Yousefi, Roozbeh Alimardani, Amirhossein Jamshidi, Shams-Ali Rezazadeh, Aboulghasem Yousefi, Farhad Zare, Atbin Moradi, Ardalan Vossough. A 22-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind controlled trial of Crocus sativus in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. 207:637-643.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Pregnancy. Presented at the Congress on Maternal Mortality Due to Neurological Pregnancy Complications, Iran.

2023

Oral Presentation: Brain Networks Perspectives on Neuropsychopharmacology. Presented at the 12th Basic and Clinical Neuroscience Congress, Iran.

Oral Presentation: Neurotransmitters Involved in Neuropsychopharmacology. Presented at the First International Conference on Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Iraq.

Oral Presentation: New Methods of Neurorehabilitation in Neuromuscular Disorders. Presented at the First International Conference on Neuromuscular Disorders, Iraq.

Presenting an article in the 5th national congress of Neuromuscular Disorders in Iran: Co-morbid Neuromuscular Disorders in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

2025

Oral Presentation: The role of PRMS in neuromuscular disorders. Presented at the Second International Conference on Neuromuscular Disorders in Iraq.

2025

Oral Presentation: Audience-Specific Applications of Complex Dynamic Systems Theory in Medicine and Medical Education: A critical Narrative Review. Presented at the First International Medical Education Conference at Subtain University, Iraq.