Marina Botto

Marina Botto, MD FMedSci, is a Professor of Rheumatology and Head of the Department of Immunology and Inflammation at Imperial College London. She concurrently serves as Interim Head of the Department of Brain Science and Director of Bioservices. Her roles extend to Honorary Consultant Rheumatologist at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. She holds affiliations with the Centre for Inflammatory Disease, Immuno-Pathology Network, and Vascular Science Network.

Education: Medical degree and Rheumatology qualification obtained in Italy, followed by academic training in the UK. Elected Fellow of the UK Academy of Medical Sciences (2009).

Research focuses on complement system deficiencies and their role in autoimmunity (specifically systemic lupus erythematosus/SLE), renal diseases, cancer, and immunometabolism. Pioneered studies on C1q's extracomplement roles in ageing, angiogenesis, and cancer. Developed experimental models enabling targeted complement inhibitor strategies for chronic inflammatory diseases.

Leadership: Member/Chair of UK and European grant review committees. Supervised over 40 students. Research contributions include over 200 original publications, with emphasis on translational studies linking basic immunology to clinical applications.