معرفی
Zane Lucāne is a fourth-year doctoral student in the Medicine subprogram of the Healthcare doctoral program at Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) and serves as a Lecturer in Clinical Immunology at RSU. She combines her academic work with a family physician role in Southern Kurzeme and prior service in the National Armed Forces. Her research focuses on congenital immune disorders, particularly antibody deficiency and its interaction with SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
- Recognized as RSU Doctoral Student of the Year (2024) for her contributions to immunology
- Conducted hybrid research involving laboratory immunology (blood sample analysis) and qualitative patient interviews
- Published six peer-reviewed articles in three years
Her doctoral thesis, "SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for patients with congenital immunity disorders in Latvia: Immune response and reasons behind refusing recommended vaccination," reveals critical insights into T-cell protection in antibody-deficient patients and vaccine hesitancy patterns unique to immunodeficient populations. She emphasizes RSU's support for doctoral students through grants, research infrastructure, and mentorship under Professor Nataļja Kurjāne.
Zane's work bridges clinical practice and academic research, demonstrating how doctoral studies enhance not just research skills but also day-to-day medical practice. She advocates for structured scientific training as a form of professional self-growth, even for those not pursuing academic careers long-term. Her research outcomes have direct implications for Latvia's healthcare policies regarding immunization strategies for vulnerable populations.
