Book a Scientist - the speed-dating format for the curious and knowledge-hungry

Digital conversations on 03.06.2025

“Book a Scientist” gives you the chance to spend 25 minutes online with an expert from the Leibniz Association – and to ask everything you’ve always wanted to know about your favourite topic.

What BNITM offers

Lassa virus immunology

Languages: German / English
Conversation partner: Ludmilla Unrau

As an immunologist, I am fascinated by the interactions and characteristics of the cells of the immune system, which are essential in the fight against viruses. Researching these is exciting, but also challenging in the case of the highly pathogenic Lassa virus, classified as biosafety level 4 pathogen. I invite you to talk to me about immunological research in Germany and Nigeria.

Role of human microRNAs in the pathogenesis of Malaria

Language: English
Conversation partner: Nahla Metwally

Since its discovery in 1993, microRNAs has been recognised as essential molecule for gene regulation. microRNAs could be an appropriate drug target for the treatment of infectious diseases. Until now their role in Malaria complications is not well understood. In my research I characterise how the microRNA profiles of human brain and lung endothelial cells are affected during malaria infection.