معرفی
Dr. Anna Blakney is an Assistant Professor in the Michael Smith Laboratories and School of Biomedical Engineering at the University of British Columbia (UBC). She holds a PhD in Bioengineering from the University of Washington and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Imperial College London. Her research focuses on RNA delivery systems, immunology, and vaccine development, with a particular emphasis on optimizing gene therapies and understanding immune interactions with biomaterials. Key affiliations include the Michael Smith Laboratories (MSL) and the Genome Sciences and Technology (GSAT) program at UBC.
Her work spans translational research in self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) vaccines, lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations, and biomaterial engineering. Notable achievements include developing saRNA platforms for HIV and cancer therapies, and pioneering outreach initiatives like TikTok-based science communication through the UN’s Project Halo. Dr. Blakney has secured major grants such as the $24M New Frontiers in Research Fund grant for neurodegenerative disease research and the MSFHR Scholar Award for antibody therapy projects.
Research interests include:
- RNA delivery mechanisms and immune interactions
- Optimization of saRNA for clinical translation
- Topical and intramuscular vaccine delivery strategies
- Development of thermostable RNA formulations
- Cellular sensing of RNA formulations
Publications highlight advancements in saRNA biodistribution, nanoparticle characterization, and preclinical vaccine efficacy. Awards include MIT’s 35 Innovators Under 35 and UBC’s President’s Award for Media Outreach. Her lab actively collaborates with institutions worldwide, aiming to bridge scientific innovation with public education.
