Dr Valeria Lulla: New Tutorial Fellow in Medicine
We are delighted to welcome Dr Valeria Lulla as Lincoln’s new Tutorial Fellow in Medicine. She will join Lincoln as a Fellow from September 2026.
Valeria said, "I am beyond excited to join Lincoln College on its six-hundredth anniversary celebration. It is an honour to become part of an institution with such a rich history of academic excellence right as it hits this remarkable milestone, and I look forward to contributing to its next chapter."
Academic background
Valeria Lulla completed her PhD at the University of Tartu in Estonia, followed by postdocs in Estonia, the USA, London and Cambridge. She established her independent group in 2021, supported by a Royal Society and Wellcome Trust Henry Dale Fellowship in the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge. She is currently a Wellcome Trust Career Development Award Fellow and will be joining the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology in 2027.
Research interests
The Lulla group investigates the replication and pathogenicity of intestinal RNA viruses, focusing primarily on enteric viruses such as picornaviruses and astroviruses. Beyond gastrointestinal targets, these pathogens can invade cells of the central nervous system (CNS), triggering severe neurological complications including encephalitis and meningitis.
Her group aims to elucidate virus–host interactions and uncover the molecular mechanics driving different stages of infection. Future research plans focus on identifying tissue-specific regulation of viral protein synthesis, defining specialised CNS host responses, and uncovering how viral RNA structures drive viral replication and neurovirulence. Ultimately, this research will enhance our understanding of tissue-specific properties in clinically important pathogens, paving the way for novel vaccines, therapeutics, and informed public health strategies.
Approach to teaching
Valeria will draw on the Oxford tutorial system to create an engaging environment for intellectual exchange in small groups. Her teaching strategy emphasises strengthening foundational knowledge while developing students' independent critical thinking, including the informed use of AI tools. She believes the foundation of success in any scientific discipline is preparing the next generation of researchers. Her approach is personable and supportive, tailored to nurture individual strengths and foster both professional and personal growth.
Personal interests
Valeria enjoys baking, ice skating, hiking and spending quality time with her family. She is equally passionate about scientific outreach, regularly organising events for science festivals to inspire young people, especially girls and under-represented groups, to pursue careers across STEMM disciplines.
