Delphine Gaillard

My journey into biology began on the lab bench at the University of Neuchâtel, where I delved into the world of ecology, the study of (micro-)organisms, their interactions at different scales and their evolution. During an immunology course, I realised the complexity of the human body and its immense potential for treating disease, and this awakened a growing desire to learn more about the intricate dance of immune cells. This revelation led me to start my Master's degree in Medical Biology in Lausanne.

During a 2-month research project in the Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, I unravelled the mysteries of innate memory by demonstrating the influence of trained immune responses (innate memory) in young and old mice. Later, I did my MSc at the Institute of Microbiology on intracellular pathogenic bacteria, Waddlia chondrophila of the Chlamydiaceae family, which are mainly responsible for miscarriages in women and ruminants. I investigated the functional role of some virulence proteins and determined their biological impact during cell infection.

Whether it is exploring how molecular mechanisms control biological functions, using cutting-edge biotechnologies or contributing to (pre-)clinical research for the development of therapies, I thrive at the intersection of science and impact.

These diverse working environments are the roots of my great interest in a versatile, dynamic and proactive job. I'm keen to contribute to research and development-oriented projects, with a particular focus on immunology, biotechnology, oncology, microbiology and/or neuroscience. I am a dedicated and inquisitive team player who will show commitment and motivation to tasks that are as varied as they are challenging!

Cashier (Part-time job)

Shell service station, Neuchâtel | May 2024 – Today

• For the tasks associated with this role, see 'Cashier' below.

Volunteer

WWOOF Sweden | March 2024 

• Volunteered in a sustainable, organic and bio-certified farm with a focus on self-sufficiency.
• Managed daily tasks such as household shores and animal care (horses, cows, sheeps, hens and ducks).
• Worked mainly in the forestry during the winter season.
• Experienced handicrafts such as hide tanning and wool spinning.
• Enjoyed riding horses bareback in the forest, doing some dairy work, visiting the surrounding and sharing good time with other WWOOFers from different nationalities.

Master thesis – Laboratory of Microbiology

Pr. Gilbert Greub | Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne | June 2023 – January 2024

“Characterization of putative virulence factors of Waddlia chondrophila”

• Performed various molecular biology techniques involving molecular cloning, PCR, RT-qPCR, gel electrophoresis, Bradford protein assay and Western blotting.
• Developed and analysed confocal fluorescent images.
• Maintained cell, bacterial and amoeba cultures.
• Got acquainted with different software, including Geneious, ZEN Microscopy, ImageJ, Fiji and GraphPad Prism.

Cashier (Part-time job)

Shell service station, Neuchâtel | September 2019 – February 2023

• Ensured customer service with checkout and enquiries.
• Handled cash limits and bill problems.
• Managed shop maintenance and shelf stocking.
• Trained new cashiers for opening and closing shifts.

Intern – Laboratory of Infectious Diseases

Pr. Thierry Roger | Infectious Diseases Service (CHUV), Lausanne | October 2022 – December 2022

“Impact of age on the efficacy of trained immunity in mice”

• Dissected a dozen mice to collect whole blood, bones and spleen for in vitro assays.
• Conducted experiments using ELISA and flow cytometry.
• Analysed results using SoftMax Pro, FlowJo and GraphPad Prism.

School caretaker assistant (summer work)

Commune of Cressier | July 2019 – July 2022

• Cleaned windows of the whole school.
• Took part in stripping classroom floors.
• Carried and set up furniture in preparation for the new school year.

Intern - Laboratory of Plant Physiology

Pr. Felix Kessler | University of Neuchâtel | November 2021 – June 2022

• Contributed to a PhD candidate’s project involving molecular cloning, PCR, RT-qPCR, gel electrophoresis and Western blotting.
• Initiated the use of molecular design platforms and standardisation methods, including SnapGene and ImageJ.

Intern - Laboratory of Cancer Vaccine Development

Pr. Lana Kandalaft | Department of Oncology (CHUV), Lausanne | January 2022

• Observed cell culture maintenance, harvesting and cell counting.
• Initiated to the FACS gating strategy.

Project Associate of Midnight Littoral – Fondation IdeeSport

IdeeSport Boudry (NE) | January 2019 – May 2019

• Conducted sports events for young people aged 11-17.
• Coordinated a team of 10 people.
• Provided updates on activities, damage and incidents to various local stakeholders.
• Created and designed promotional content across social networks.
• Partnered with Appel d’air to raise awareness of mental health and suicide.

SeniorCoach Midnight Littoral - Fondation IdeeSport

IdeeSport Boudry (NE) | Septembre 2017 – Décembre 2018

• Supervised sports events to support the project associates.
• Participated in activities to encourage integration among young people aged 11-17.

Master of Science in Medical Biology

Specialization in cancer and immunology | Faculty of Biology and Medicine | University of Lausanne | 2022 –2024

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Faculty of Science | University of Neuchâtel | 2018 - 2021