Jennifer is a post-doctoral fellow in the Sharma Lab based at Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research in conjunction with Curtin University. She has a background in viral immunology, completing her PhD titled “Effect of Viral Adaptation and T Cell Receptor Usage on Natural and Vaccine-Induced Cellular Immunity” at the University of Western Australia in 2022, of which was awarded a Dean’s List Honourable Mention. Jennifer’s Thesis focused on two viruses, influenza virus and human immunodeficiency virus, and explored the implications of host-viral interactions on vaccine design. The results of her Thesis provided an in-depth understanding of host-viral interactions, particularly in the context of viral adaptation and its impact on the anti-viral immune response; these findings are important for vaccine design and the ability to develop high efficacy vaccines for several mutable viral pathogens.

In the Sharma Lab, Jennifer will be exploring similarities between fetal and tumor microenvironments with respect to T cells in hepatocellular carcinoma. Furthermore, she will be assessing the subsequent impact of onco-fetal reprogramming within the tumor ecosystem on immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy outcome. Other interests include hiking, painting, and music.