As a licenced architect with more than 30 years experience in architecture, public art, and fine arts, Ali has worked on several large-scale award-winning projects. His architectural work during the last 10 years has focused on the impact of the built environment on mental and physiological health and wellbeing. Heshmati is a PhD candidate researching the impact of light on the brain's regulation of circadian system, health, mood fluctuations, cognitive performance and focus. He is a frequent speaker on the intersection of neuroscience and architecture and impact of design on health.