Despina Bazou
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, GROUP LEADER
> Department of Biology, Maynooth University, North Campus, Kildare, Ireland
> Head of Haematooncology Translational Research, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital (MMUH), Ireland
> Research Fellow, Edwin Steele Lab for Tumour Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School (with Dr. Lance Munn and Dr. Rakesh Jain)
> Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Cardiif University
> M.Sc. Physical Sciences in Medicine, Trinity College Dublin
> B.S. Genetics, Cardiff University
Angelique Cheryl
PhD STUDENT
I completed BSc (Hons) in Biopharmaceutical Science at Dundalk Institute of Technology.
My research focuses on the clinical development of multi-omic protein and miRNA biomarker signatures for multiple myeloma EV liquid biopsy under the primary mentorship of Prof. Margaret McGee (SBBS, UCD) and Dr. Despina Bazou
During my free time, I enjoy expressing moments of creativity through dance.
Anushka Kulkarni
PhD STUDENT
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India, and a Master’s in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Trinity College Dublin.
My research focuses on exploring the role of platelets in multiple myeloma under the mentoriship of Prof. Maria José Santos-Martinez (School of Pharmacy, Trinity College Dublin) and Dr. Despina Bazou.
Beyond academics, painting is my go-to for creative expression and relaxation. On weekends, you’ll often find me playing badminton with friends and enjoying fiction along with a cup of tea or, when I’m in the mood for adventure, discovering Ireland’s scenic beauty through hiking new trails.
Paul Lorenzo Adapon Gaite
PhD STUDENT
I am originally from the Philippines and hold Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from the University of the Philippines Diliman. I am currently conducting research under the mentorship of Dr Despina Bazou, with a focus on applying computational and bioinformatics approaches to investigate extramedullary multiple myeloma. My work aims to integrate biological insight with data driven analysis to better understand disease mechanisms.
Outside the lab, I enjoy travelling and exploring new places, going on nature walks, and discovering different cuisines whenever I get the chance.
Ellen Purcell
PhD STUDENT
Originally from Kilkenny, I hold a BSc in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, which I earned from University College Dublin (UCD) in 2024. My research focuses on investigating Extramedullary Disease in Multiple Myeloma through multi-Omic approaches with the ultimate goal to identify novel therapeutic targets .
Outside of the lab, I am an active camogie player, proudly representing both my local club and the UCD college team. I also love spending time outdoors, whether it's exploring nature or enjoying walks with friends and family. When I’m not on the pitch or outside, I unwind through painting and drawing, which lets me channel my creativity.