From Systems Thinking to Self-Discovery: What PhD Student Sina Shid-Moosavi Learned in LEADERs

By Enryka Christopher

Sina Shid-Moosavi, originally from Iran, completed a B.S. and M.S. in Civil Engineering with a focus on structural analysis and seismic resilience. Seeking a more interdisciplinary path, he moved to the U.S. and earned a second M.S. in Smart Cities at the University of Central Florida, working on AI-powered sensing systems for infrastructure monitoring. He is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Northeastern University, specializing in AI-integrated structural health monitoring and digital twin technologies for large-scale energy infrastructure, particularly offshore wind turbines. 

Enryka Christopher (EC): What is your major and research focus? 

Sina Shid-Moosavi (SS): I am pursuing a PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering with a Data & Systems concentration. My research focuses on integrating AI and digital twin technologies into structural monitoring systems for energy infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on offshore wind turbines and predictive maintenance strategies. Digital twin technologies are part of a cutting-edge research method that uses machine learning algorithms to collect large amounts of real-time data on a turbine’s (or other machine’s) performance, condition, and environment. It then uses this data to create a digital replica of operational characteristics that can be used to simulate various scenarios, analyze performance data, and predict potential problems before they occur. Scientists can then use the knowledge gained to optimize the turbine’s operation and make informed decisions about things like maintenance schedules. By developing predictive maintenance systems for offshore wind turbines, their operational life can be extended, reducing costs and ultimately making renewable energy more accessible and reliable. 

EC: What drew you to LEADERs? 

SS: I was interested in LEADERs because of the strong professional network it offers and the close, ongoing support from Terry [Marroquin] and Wendy [Eaton]. Their hands-on approach made the course feel welcoming and valuable. 

EC: What is one valuable thing you took away from the “Leading Self and Others” course? 

SS: One of the most valuable takeaways was the opportunity to better understand my own strengths and areas for growth, and how to apply that awareness to both academic and professional settings. 

EC: What did you gain from the course? 

SS: The course helped me view leadership as an adaptive and collaborative skill, especially when working across disciplines. It also gave me tools to navigate team dynamics more effectively. 

EC: How did the LEADERs course support or change your perspective on your research?  

SS: The course encouraged me to think about my research beyond academia, particularly how it can be applied in industry. Preparing presentations with that lens helped me translate my work into real-world relevance. 

EC: What was your experience like in the LEADERs course? 

SS: It was a very enriching experience. The courses were interactive, the instructors were supportive, and the cohort dynamic made it easy to learn from others with different backgrounds and goals. 

EC: What advice would you give to a PhD student considering the LEADERs course? 

SS: I would recommend joining early in your PhD to increase your chances of securing an industry placement. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Terry or Wendy—they are incredibly helpful and approachable. 

EC: What are some words of advice for PhD students coming to Boston to attend Northeastern from across the world? 

SS: Be open to new experiences and build connections early. Boston is full of academic and professional opportunities, and Northeastern has strong resources to help international students feel supported and succeed. 

Upon completion of the “Leading Self and Others” course, LEADERs program staff and partner companies select fellows who align with specific industry needs. PhDs are supported through the fellowship application process and placed in a specialized role to solve a problem in industry. They go on to earn a LEADERs’ Experiential PhD leadership certificate, with guidance from an industry mentor and faculty advisor. The program is run by the PhD Network, which helps prepare students to enter the workforce as impactful researchers. 

If you are interested in the LEADERs program, sign up or contact Wendy Eaton, director of LEADERs partnership relations. Follow us on LinkedIn.