Samara Rocha Souza

Doctoral Researcher @ University of Helsinki

About

► iCANDOC Doctoral Researcher in Saksela’s Lab (Virology) at the University of Helsinki ◄ My research focuses on a novel approach to cancer immunotherapy, using engineered sherpabodies (smaller than nanobodies) to construct and characterize several bi and multispecific, including “SheBiTEs” for cytotoxic T cell recruitment, and other designs. My work aims to provide proof of concept for these novel molecules in cell culture studies, with the goal of improving the specificity, potency, and safety of cancer immunotherapy. The potential impact of this research is to identify lead designs or molecules for more effective and accessible cancer treatments. My previous experiences spans the Biological (BSc) and Veterinary Sciences (MSc), with 5 years of merit-based research scholarships in animal health at the world-renowned Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA Goats & Sheep). I have published on topics such as small ruminants, antiviral agents, herbal medicines, and lentiviruses. As a first-generation student, my journey has been shaped by resilience and a commitment to creating opportunities for others. My passion for science and improving the well-being of all living beings inspires me to focus on research that addresses real-world challenges. Coming from a background with limited access to resources, I am driven not only to conduct impactful research but also to directly support aspiring scientists from Brazil and other underserved regions. I hope to build bridges between research in Finland (or Europe) and institutions in these areas, fostering partnerships that make science more inclusive and accessible. My goal is to ensure that the benefits of research reach those who need it most, while inspiring and empowering the next generations of scientists. I’m always happy to connect with those who share the same goals and values. Do not hesitate to drop me a message :) ► My comments are my own. AI holds no responsibility for my mistakes. ◄

Country

Finland

City

Helsinki

Industry

Biotechnology

Skill

Experience

Doctoral Researcher

University of Helsinki

2025-1 - Present · 1 yr 9 mos

Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland

Master’s Researcher

Embrapa

2021-8 - 2022-10 · 1 yr 3 mos

Sobral, Ceará, Brazil

Virology laboratory a) Focused on researching in vivo antiretroviral activity of the Melia azedarach plant against Small Ruminant Lentiviruses (SRLV) in goat colostrum and milk. • Co-managed the project involving 13 researchers • Collected and processed ethanolic extract from Melia azedarach (EAF-MA) • Collected and processed goat colostrum and milk (DNA extraction and nPCR) • Treated goat colostrum and milk with EAF-MA • Monitored experimental groups for 6 month (16 kids, blood samples, DNA extraction, nPCR, antigen production and WB) • Conducted data tabulation and statistical analysis • Published the study findings in peer reviewed international journal as first author • EAF-MA at the concentration used in colostrum and milk did not prevent the animals from being infected with SRLV, but a delay in infection was observed b) Co-led daily activities, supervising 3 undergraduate researchers and 1 postgraduate researcher. • Coordinated team activities and assigned tasks and responsibilities to develop both team basic lab skills and advanced lab techniques such as electrophoresis, Western Blot and cellular culture • Worked with serological and molecular diagnostic tests like WB, IDGA, ELISA and nPCR • Reviewed and drafted EMBRAPA’s new Western Blot protocol

Junior Researcher (Undergraduate)

Embrapa

2017-10 - 2021-7 · 3 yrs 10 mos

Brazil

Virology laboratory a) Conducted independently a research project on the “Biochemical and cytotoxic analysis of milk and goat colostrum treated with Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS)”. • Led the execution, tabulation and statistical analysis (ANOVA) • Evaluate SDS effects on milk and colostrum microbiota • Applied electrophoresis, Lactoscan and cellular count techniques • Currently writing the article as first author for publication b) Collaborated on the research project “In vitro antiviral effects of plant extracts against Small Ruminant Lentivirus”. • Responsible for quantification of somatic cell counts in infected and treated milk and colostrum with a potential antiretroviral, solutions preparation and maintenance of laboratory asepsis • Played a pivotal role in cell culture responsibilities • Research was highlighted in the most important TV show about related themes: https://globorural.globo.com/pecuaria/ovinos/noticia/2023/11/extratos-vegetais-prometem-ser-solucao-no-combate-a-doenca-que-afeta-cabras.ghtml c) Collaborated on the research project “Intrauterine transmission of Small Ruminant Lentivirus”. • Responsible for cellular culture, solutions preparation and maintenance of laboratory asepsis d) Collaborated on the research project “Evaluation of mammary gland, colostrum, and respiratory system in dairy goat herds infected with Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis Virus”.

Education

Universidade Estadual do Ceará

Veterinary Sciences

2021-8 - 2023-8 · 2 yrs 1 mo

Thesis: In vivo evaluation of the antiretroviral activity of Melia azedarach against small ruminant lentiviruses in goat colostrum and milk

Universidade Estadual do Vale do Acaraú

Biology

2018 - 2021 · 3 yrs

Undergraduate thesis: Antiviral effect of meliacea extracts with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) addition against small ruminant lentiviruses in colostrum and milk