Snapshot: Sheena Saayman

Position: Research Associate, laboratory of Kevin Morris, Department of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, Scripps California

Responsibilities: Saayman’s research is focused on HIV/AIDS. Specifically, she is investigating an HIV antisense long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), which plays a role in the epigenetic regulation of proviral gene expression and viral latency. She and her Morris lab colleagues aim to target the lncRNA using RNAi, exploring this approach as a potential therapeutic strategy.

Background: A native of South Africa, Saayman earned a PhD at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, where she first began studying HIV.  

Awards: Saayman was awarded the James Gear International fellowship and the National Research Foundation (South Africa) International fellowship, both for postdoctoral research abroad.

Arrived at Scripps Research: October 2010

Impressions of Scripps Research: “I love that TSRI provides such a culturally diverse research environment—home to so many talented and inspirational scientists and mentors, enabling ample opportunity for collaboration and academic exchange. Also, San Diego is a pretty amazing location, and I feel very lucky to be able to work in such a beautiful city!”

Professional and Volunteer Activities: In addition to interning in TSRI’s Office of Technology Development, Saayman is currently serving as president of the Society of Fellows, where she aims to facilitate professional development in a fun and friendly environment and promote social exchange among young scientists at TSRI and neighboring institutes.

Other Extracurricular Activities: Involved in Highland and Irish dancing since an early age, Saayman currently performs with Highland Fusion and The Na Scealaithe Irish Dance Company and is a drummer in San Diego’s Cameron Highlanders Pipe Band.

Send comments to: press[at]scripps.edu