Dianne Sika-Paotonu

New Zealand immunologist and biomedical researcher

Dianne Sika-Paotonu is a prominent New Zealand immunologist and biomedical researcher known for her contributions to the field of immunology and her advocacy for Pacific peoples in healthcare. She is a leading figure in the study of rheumatic fever and cancer immunotherapy.

Early life and education

Dianne Sika-Paotonu was born in New Zealand and is of Tongan descent. She pursued her undergraduate studies in biomedical science at the University of Otago, where she developed a keen interest in immunology. She later completed her PhD at the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, focusing on the immune response to cancer.

Career

Sika-Paotonu began her career as a researcher at the Malaghan Institute, where she worked on developing new immunotherapies for cancer treatment. Her work has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of how the immune system can be harnessed to fight cancer.

In addition to her research, Sika-Paotonu is a senior lecturer at the University of Otago, Wellington, where she teaches medical students about the immune system and its role in disease. She is also involved in mentoring young scientists, particularly those from Pacific backgrounds, encouraging them to pursue careers in science and medicine.

Research and contributions

Sika-Paotonu's research has focused on the development of vaccines and treatments for rheumatic fever, a significant health issue in Pacific communities. Her work aims to reduce the incidence of this disease through better understanding and prevention strategies.

She has also contributed to the field of cancer immunotherapy, exploring how the body's own immune system can be used to target and destroy cancer cells. Her research has led to the development of novel therapeutic approaches that are currently being tested in clinical trials.

Advocacy and impact

Dianne Sika-Paotonu is a strong advocate for improving health outcomes for Pacific peoples. She works closely with community organizations to raise awareness about health issues and to promote access to healthcare services. Her efforts have been recognized with several awards, highlighting her impact on both science and the community.

Personal life

Sika-Paotonu is deeply committed to her family and her cultural heritage. She often speaks about the importance of maintaining cultural identity while pursuing scientific excellence.

Related pages

• Immunology
• Cancer immunotherapy
• Rheumatic fever
• University of Otago
• Pacific peoples in New Zealand

Dianne Sika-Paotonu