About
I am a medical microbiologist with a research interest in host-pathogen interactions and infection immunology. My work seeks to understand the complex interplay between pathogens and the host immune system, and how these interactions influence susceptibility to infection, disease progression and protective immunity. In particular, I am interested in how the quality and function of antibody responses shape susceptibility to infection and protection during early life.
My work focuses primarily on maternal and paediatric infectious diseases, with particular interests in Group B Streptococcus (GBS), Streptococcus pneumoniae and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). I study the mechanisms underlying pathogen colonisation, transmission and disease, as well as immune responses induced by natural infection and vaccination. I also investigate how bacterial and viral co-infections influence host immunity and microbial ecosystems.
A major focus of my research is the characterisation of functional antibody responses using systems serology approaches, including the study of Fc-mediated effector functions, antibody glycosylation, and placental transfer. I am particularly interested in maternal-infant immunity and the role of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) in shaping antibody transfer and protection during early life. By integrating clinical cohorts, experimental models and advanced immunological approaches, I aim to identify correlates and mechanisms of protection that can inform the development and evaluation of vaccines and antibody-based interventions for maternal and neonatal infectious diseases.