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Linda Djune Yemeli was highlighted as the Ambassador of the Month in July 2023. Linda has been a champ, contributing pre-course materials for many IUIS courses. We’re grateful that she joined our team! Linda is currently a final-year PhD Student at the University of Yaoundé 1, Cameroon and a visiting scholar at George Washington University, USA.
Read her previous interview – Ambassador of the Month – Linda Djune Yemeli
Please introduce yourself and tell us about your journey in immunology research since 2023.
I have completed all the requirements for my PhD, but I am still awaiting the public defence, which will likely be scheduled between May and June 2025. Since 2023, my journey in immunology research has been truly fascinating. In addition to completing my thesis, titled “Plasma Proteins and Cytokine Responses to Ivermectin Treatment of Loiasis,” I have undertaken several complementary training programs to enhance my knowledge of methodologies used in immunology research. This effort is aimed at making me more competitive for post-doctoral positions.
Last summer, I had the privilege of being part of the 2024 cohort for the prestigious Biology of Parasitism course organised by the University of Chicago in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. During the course, I particularly enjoyed the immunology module, where we explored mice’s innate immune response to Ascaris infection.
Currently, I am a visiting scholar at George Washington University, where I am gaining hands-on experience with experimental infections, multicolour flow cytometry, the Luminex platform, and other cutting-edge technologies used in immunology research
We would love to hear more about your ongoing research. What projects are you currently working on, and how do they impact the field?
Currently, I am involved in several projects, with a key focus on a study investigating the immunological mechanisms that drive the development of type-2 protective immunity during the acute phase of Ascaris infection. The findings from this research could pave the way for innovative strategies to manage and treat ascariasis and other related helminth infections.
What inspired you to choose immunology as your focus in the scientific field? Has this evolved over time?
My inspiration to focus on immunology came from an early fascination with Biology and infectious diseases. The dynamic balance between health and disease, especially in the context of infectious diseases, captivated my curiosity. This interest increased my master’s degree, where I was involved in a project exploring host-pathogen interaction during the coinfection of Plasmodium falciparum and Schistosoma mansoni.
Over time, my passion has evolved with my experiences. My PhD research on immune responses to ivermectin treatment in loiasis and my hands-on training in advanced immunological techniques have reinforced my belief in immunology’s power to address pressing challenges in parasitic infections. Additionally, being part of a project exploring Th2 immunity mechanisms during helminth infections over the past nine months has significantly broadened my understanding of how immune responses can be used to develop innovative control strategies.
Now, I see immunology not only as a field of intellectual pursuit but also as making a substantial impact on the lives of individuals affected by infectious and parasitic diseases.
What specifically stood out about Immunopaedia that made you want to become an ambassador, and how has your experience as an ambassador affected you?
What stood out to me about Immunopaedia and motivated me to become an ambassador is its invaluable role in advancing immunology education and research. The comprehensive pre-course material for IUIS courses provided by Immunopaedia ensures a strong foundational understanding, making complex topics accessible and engaging. Additionally, the platform’s “Breaking News” articles consistently keep me updated on the latest developments in immunology research, enabling me to stay informed about cutting-edge discoveries and innovations.
As an ambassador, this experience has been transformative. It has not only deepened my knowledge but also allowed me to connect with a global network of passionate immunologists. Being a part of this dynamic community has strengthened my communication skills and inspired me to contribute actively to promoting immunology education and awareness
Based on your own experience, what one piece of advice would you give someone who wants to study or research immunology in today’s scientific landscape?
The one piece of advice I would offer to anyone pursuing a career in immunology is to embrace resilience and celebrate every accomplishment, no matter how small. Like many scientific fields, immunology is filled with challenges; experiments may fail, hypotheses might be disproven, and progress can sometimes feel slow. Resilience allows you to navigate these obstacles, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward with determination.
Equally important is taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements along the way, whether it’s mastering a new technique, publishing a paper, or even reaching milestones in your studies. These moments of celebration fuel your motivation, foster a positive outlook, and remind you why you chose this path in the first place.
Can you share a moment of unexpected joy or surprise in your scientific career over the past three years that has stayed with you?
One moment of unexpected joy in my scientific career is the incredible opportunity to train in Dr. Gazzinelli’s lab at George Washington University. Dr. Gazzinelli is not only an exceptional scientist but also an inspiring mentor. His guidance, expertise, and supportive approach have made this experience truly transformative. Working in his lab has provided me with valuable skills and insights while reinforcing my passion for immunology. It’s been a privilege to learn from such a remarkable mentor, and this experience will stay with me as I continue to grow in my career.
May we please have your most recent publications?
Linda Djune-Yemeli, Hugues C Nana-Djeunga, André Domché et al (2024). Delineation of high-risk areas for loiasis-related serious adverse events: uncertainties and implications of the predictions using clinical indicators. BMC Infectious Diseases. In Press.
Nana Djeunga, H.C., Akue, J.P., Efon Ekangouo, A., Djune Yemeli, L. and Kamgno, J., 2024. Diagnosis of Loa loa: From Blood Identification to Innovative Approaches. In Loa loa: Latest Advances in Loiasis Research (pp. 111-120). Cham: Springer International Publishing.
