Ibrahima Diallo
Research areas of interest: Immunology, Immunometabolism, Proteomics
Affiliation(s)
Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands | Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases
Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar (UCAD) | Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy and Odontology, Department of Immunology
Education and Research background
I am currently pursuing a PhD with a primary research focus on the field of immunometabolism. Specifically, I am investigating the relationship between immunometabolism and vaccine immunogenicity as well as vaccine effectiveness, particularly in individuals living in different environmental settings.
To provide some context, I completed my MSc in immunology and infectious diseases at Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar between 2018 and 2021. Following the completion of my master’s degree, I joined the Institute of Research in Health, Epidemiological Surveillance and Training (IRESSEF) from 2020 to 2022. During my time there, I worked as a laboratory scientist primarily involved in conducting COVID-19 tests and collecting samples for the AIDCO vaccine study project. This project aimed to gain a better understanding of SARS-CoV-2 transmission within communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
My work on immune responses to vaccines
At present, my PhD research focuses on investigating the immunological responses that occur following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in individuals who reside in diverse environmental settings. By examining these responses, I aim to uncover valuable insights into the factors that contribute to differences in vaccine efficacy across different populations. Ultimately, the knowledge gained from this research has the potential to inform and enhance strategies aimed at improving the efficacy and effectiveness of vaccines. The primary objective of my PhD project is to unravel the mechanisms underlying the distinct immune profiles, protein expression, and metabolite patterns observed in COVID-19 vaccinated individuals from Africa compared to Europe. Understanding these differences is crucial as it can help identify the factors contributing to variations in vaccine efficacy and effectiveness.
The findings from this study may provide insights into the specific immunological pathways and metabolic processes that impact vaccine responses in different environmental settings.
beyond research
In addition to being a football lover, I am also passionate about various other sports. Sports play a significant role in my life since they provide not only entertainment but also valuable lessons in teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Some of the other sports I enjoy watching and following are Formula 1 racing and athletics.