Alina is a PhD student at the Medical Department of the University of Bern, researching the bat interferon system in relation to viral infections. She holds a MSc in Infection Biology from the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Her MSc thesis explored protective immunity against hookworms. Alina's research interests include tropical diseases, zoonoses, and public health. She aspires to remain in academia while influencing policy-making and addressing emerging infectious diseases.