Research focus: Molecular biomarkers, genetic and epigenetic mechanisms, and diabetes
Current research:
Dias’s research aims to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms that are implicated in the development and progression of different types of diabetes during pregnancy. She uses a variety of molecular and epigenetic mechanisms to identify novel biomarkers that could facilitate risk stratification and intervention strategies to detect and better manage women with diabetes during pregnancy and improve health outcomes for both mothers and their offspring. Furthermore, she has experience in DNA and RNA isolation and quantification from blood and tissue, global and gene specific DNA methylation analysis, quantitative real time PCR using DNA or total RNA, SNP genotyping, microRNA sequencing, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) analysis and whole-genome Illumina bead chip arrays.
Biography:
Dr Dias started her scientific journey as a NRF research intern at the Diabetes Discovery Platform (now BRIP). In 2014, she assumed the role of scientist within the same unit and pursued her MSc in Molecular Biology under the expert supervision of Prof Carmen Pheiffer, which was in collaboration with Stellenbosch University. Her MSc focused on the early detection and prevention of individuals who are at risk for metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, which she graduated with distinction (Cum Laude). Thereafter, she pursued her PhD at the University of Pretoria, under the supervision of Prof Carmen Pheiffer, Prof Sumaiya Adam and Prof Paul Rheeder. Her PhD research was concerned with an integrated, multidisciplinary approach involving both basic and clinical research to potentially enhance the health and well-being of women and children affected by GDM through biomarker discovery. Dr Dias currently holds a senior scientist position at BRIP and has 7 years’ working experience in diabetes research. She is involved in managing and coordinating research projects and supervising and training post-graduate students. During her time at BRIP, she has published 21 articles in reputable, peer-reviewed journals and have presented her research at local and international conferences. Recently, she also became involved in SARS-CoV-2 surveillance in wastewater. Dr Dias is a Cannon Collins alumnus, having received a scholarship for her MSc, and is a recipient of the NRF Thuthuka grant (2016-2018 (PhD) and 2021-2023 (post-doctoral)) which funds her current research.