Dr. Gina Leisching

Research Description:

I aim to be an innovator in the fields of academia and research. I have expertise in the areas of biomedical science and immunometabolism. I was born and raised in South Africa where I excelled academically, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Physiology and a PhD in Physiological Sciences at Stellenbosch University. Following my studies, I began my career in academia, working as a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa. Here, I conducted noteworthy research on tuberculosis, focusing on identifying host defense mechanisms through my studies of the bacterial molecular mechanisms that promote survival in the host cell. My research resulted in several high-impact publications in major scientific journals and has contributed significantly to our understanding of the disease. I am currently a Research Assistant Professor at Trinity College Dublin where my work aims to understand the immunometabolism of diseases underpinned by type I interferons. Currently, I have a specific interest in lupus and in identifying ways in which we can manipulate immune cell metabolism to minimise disease burden. I am passionate about contributing to the growth and development of the next generation of scientists aiming to provide them with the scientific tools to excel in their careers. My contributions to science have been widely recognized, and I have received numerous awards and accolades for my accomplishments. I was awarded a Y rating from the National Research Foundation in 2019 as a Promising Young Researcher as well as a Top 20 Postdoctoral Fellow at Stellenbosch University in 2019. I remain committed to pushing the boundaries of science and innovation, and to making a positive impact on society.