Dr Johana Isaza-Correa

I studied biology in the University of Antioquia (Universidad de Antioquia) –  Colombia, with emphasis in cellular and molecular mechanisms. As an undergrad, I studied the response of T lymphocytes in patients with T-cell lymphoma. I then pursued a master’s degree in Medical and Pharmaceutical Drug Innovation (MPDI) in the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) – The Netherlands. The masters allowed me to explore multiple topics from basic to applied science. Seeing the essential role of the immune system in all of these areas, I decided to do my doctoral degree in immunology (Maynooth University, 2018). As a PhD student my research focus was regulatory mechanisms of innate immunity in programmed cell death and hypoxia, especially in the context of immune responses to infections.

I joined the FIREFLY project at the end of 2020 and I will be coordinating its execution. My contribution to the project will be from my technical experience and theoretical knowledge in immunology and I hope it would help to improve our understanding of neonatal brain injury and to recognize potential therapeutic alternatives.