Could you give a few information about yourself and your scientific background, including previous studies and obtained degrees?

I completed my Bachelor’s degree at University of Toronto in Canada. Having studied pharmacology and immunology as an undergraduate, I delved further into immunology and microbiology for my Master’s degree at Imperial College London. Just like how the immune system maintains the health of diverse organ compartments, studying immunology has been a great pleasure, allowing me to explore a broad range of research areas.

Could you provide details about your scientific research, and previous projects, listing your key expertise and skills? 

My studies in immunology since undergraduate degree has provided me with a solid foundation in molecular and clinical immunology. At the same time, I have acquired hands-on research experience in microbiology from my previous research project where I investigated whether bacterial pathogens exploit immune inhibitory receptors to suppress innate immune responses, using in vitro reporter cell line models. Additionally, I gained experience in tissue culture and lentiviral transduction to generate cell lines expressing proteins such as surface receptors of interest.

What was the motivation for joining the AUREUS project?

I see the AUREUS program as a natural continuation of my professional growth following my master’s degree. Most importantly, I view a PhD as a journey during which a research question unfolds, where the destination lies in the revelation of novel insights and in one’s development into a mature researcher.

What is the motivation and aim of your PhD project?

Dendritic cells (DCs) have the critical ability to prime different types of immune responses depending on the nature of infections and the immune receptors that are triggered. In the context of deeper skin tissue S. aureus infection, I will investigate the recognition of S. aureus wall teichoic acid glycoprofiles by C-type lectin receptors expressed on DCs, as well as the downstream immunological consequences.

Could you write a few sentences about yourself, your hobbies, interests? 

My previous studies have given me the opportunity to live in different countries, breathing in their distinct air and experiencing diverse cultures. I enjoy exploring new cities, taking morning walks while the city is still asleep.