Researcher at Chang Center of Molecular Immunology, Cuba
Sum Lai Lozada Chang is a distinguished Cuban biochemist and researcher specializing in vaccine development and molecular immunology 🧬. With over 30 years of experience, she has made significant contributions to public health, notably in developing the SOBERANA02 COVID-19 vaccine 💉. She has held key leadership positions, including Head of Bioprocess Development at the Center of Molecular Immunology in Havana, where she leads groundbreaking research on immunological and pharmaceutical innovations. Sum Lai has published extensively on SARS-CoV-2 and IL-2 mutein research, demonstrating her expertise in immunotherapy and biopharmaceuticals 📚. Her work has earned her numerous awards 🏆, such as the Carlos J. Finlay Order and Lázaro Peña Order, highlighting her commitment to science and humanity. Beyond her research, she mentors students, contributing to the future of Cuban science 👩🏫. Sum Lai is a dedicated, innovative leader in the global scientific community 🌍.
Professional profile
Education📚
Sum Lai Lozada Chang began her academic journey at the University of Havana, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry in 1993 🎓. Her education laid a solid foundation for her future research in molecular immunology and vaccine development. Over the years, she has continuously honed her skills in biochemistry and biotechnology 🧬, working with specialized techniques in protein and polysaccharide purification. Her deep understanding of biological processes has been critical in the development of innovative biopharmaceuticals 💊. Sum Lai also plays an active role in academic mentorship, supervising bachelor’s and master’s theses, helping the next generation of scientists flourish 👩🏫. Her academic achievements and dedication to lifelong learning have enabled her to take on leadership roles in research institutions, where she has driven scientific discovery and vaccine innovation 💡. Sum Lai’s education has been instrumental in shaping her illustrious career in scientific research.
Professional Experience🏛️
Sum Lai Lozada Chang boasts a robust professional career in biochemistry and molecular immunology 🧪. She began as a Protein and Polysaccharide Purification Specialist at the Finlay Institute in Havana (1993-2004), where she developed her expertise in vaccine components 💉. Later, she advanced to Head of the Antigen and Polysaccharide Department (2005-2012) and subsequently became the Head of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient Production Plant (2012-2016) 🏭. In these roles, she led critical research on vaccine development, focusing on improving pharmaceutical processes and production efficiency.
Since 2016, Sum Lai has been a prominent Researcher at the Center of Molecular Immunology, where her work on COVID-19 vaccines like SOBERANA02 has been groundbreaking 🌍. In 2024, she assumed the role of Head of Bioprocess Development, furthering her influence in biopharmaceutical research. Her professional journey is marked by leadership, innovation, and a commitment to improving global health through scientific discovery 🚀.
Research Interest🌐
Sum Lai Lozada Chang has a profound research interest in molecular immunology, particularly in the development of vaccines and biopharmaceuticals 🧬. Her work focuses on protein and polysaccharide purification, a critical aspect of vaccine formulation 💉. She is deeply involved in creating innovative methodologies for vaccine development, including the design of conjugate vaccines and improving the stability and effectiveness of recombinant proteins.
One of her key research areas is the SARS-CoV-2 virus, where she has contributed significantly to the development of COVID-19 vaccines such as SOBERANA02 🦠. Sum Lai is also interested in the pharmacokinetics and antitumor properties of novel IL-2 muteins, which enhance immune response against cancer 🎯. Her research integrates advanced techniques in biotechnology, aiming to solve global health challenges 🌍. Sum Lai’s dedication to exploring new frontiers in immunology and vaccine development continues to push the boundaries of biomedical science 🚀.
Awards and Honors🏆
Sum Lai Lozada Chang has earned numerous prestigious awards and honors throughout her career, reflecting her exceptional contributions to science 🏆. In 2017, she was awarded the Carlos J. Finlay Order, recognizing her valuable contributions to Cuban scientific development and benefiting humanity 🌍. Her groundbreaking research earned her two Annual Prizes from the Cuban Academy of Sciences in 2021: one for her work on a novel protein digestion method using mass spectrometry 🧪, and another for the design and development of the SOBERANA02 COVID-19 vaccine 💉.
In recognition of her extraordinary work ethic and contributions to the national economy, she received the Lázaro Peña Order in 2021 🏅. Sum Lai’s dedication to science and health has made a lasting impact on Cuba and the global community, making her a celebrated figure in the field of molecular immunology 🚀
Conclusion:
Sum Lai Lozada Chang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with her strengths in leadership, critical research on vaccines, and long-standing commitment to biochemistry. Expanding her research influence internationally and exploring cutting-edge technologies could further cement her legacy in the scientific community
Publications top noted📜
- Oxidative refolding by Copper-catalyzed air oxidation consistently increases the homogeneity and activity of a Novel Interleukin-2 mutein
Authors: Lozada, S.L., Gómez, J.A., Menéndez, K., Ledon, N., Carmenate, T.
Published: 2024
Journal: Journal of Biotechnology, Vol. 393, pp. 81–90
Citations: 0
🧬 This study explores the copper-catalyzed oxidative refolding process to improve the activity and homogeneity of a novel IL-2 mutein, with applications in biotechnology and immunotherapy.
- The antitumor effect induced by an IL-2 ‘no-alpha’ mutein depends on changes in the CD8+ T lymphocyte/Treg cell balance
Authors: Carmenate, T., Montalvo, G., Lozada, S.L., Graça, L., León, K.
Published: 2022
Journal: Frontiers in Immunology, Vol. 13, Article 974188
Citations: 7
🔬 This paper investigates the antitumor effects of an IL-2 ‘no-alpha’ mutein and its influence on the balance between CD8+ T cells and Tregs, contributing to cancer immunotherapy advancements.
