Somayra Mamsa

Somayra Mamsa is a PhD Candidate in the School of Molecular Sciences at The University of Western Australia (UWA), Faculty of Science. She concurrently holds a Casual Teaching role, contributing to laboratory demonstrations for undergraduate courses in biochemistry and molecular biology. Her research focuses on Alzheimer’s disease, aging, blood-brain barrier dynamics, and neurodegenerative mechanisms. Mamsa has been recognized with prestigious awards including the 2023 Finalist for Student Scientist of the Year and the 2021 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship.

Education:

• BBiomedSc (Hons) in Medical Research, UWA
• BSc in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, UWA
• Sherwin B. Nuland Summer Institute in Bioethics, Yale University

Research Expertise: Mamsa’s work intersects bioinformatics, biotechnology, and medicine, with a focus on metallomics in neurodegenerative diseases. Her studies explore copper elevation in nervous system trauma and arginine’s role in protein aggregation. Her contributions advance understanding of Alzheimer’s pathology and neuroprotection strategies.

Teaching: She instructs courses including BIOC1001, IMED1003, and SCIE4404, emphasizing practical laboratory skills in molecular sciences. Her teaching aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to quality education and good health.

Awards:

• Finalist, Student Scientist of the Year (2023)
• Rising Star, STEM Academia & Research (2022)
• Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship (2021)

Collaborations: Her research networks include collaborations on metallomic gene expression and youth mental health protocols, demonstrating interdisciplinary reach across neuroscience, biochemistry, and public health.