Samira Aili
‘Ants: the solution to world hunger’
Research Summary:
Ant venoms are known to possess insecticidal peptides, which they use for prey capture. Samira's research looks to create a natural bioinsecticide derived from these venoms, which would help to alleviate the growing pest problem that annually leads to the destruction of agricultural crops. This type of bio insecticide could help increase global crop yields, reduce the world food crisis, and reduce the impact of insect-transmitted diseases.
Bio:
Samira Aili is in the last year of her PhD at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). Her research focus is using ant venoms as a source of antibiotics and insecticides. She graduated with a Bachelor of Medical Science (Hons) from UTS. Samira has presented her work at both national and international conferences, and is involved in teaching undergraduate and Masters students. Samira also enjoys teaching science to primary and high school kids, promoting STEM to the younger generations. When she isn’t in the laboratory or her office, Samira enjoys boxing, baking and travelling.