Sirika Pillay

Sirika Pillay has a diverse work experience history. Sirika is currently the Director of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology at Encoded Therapeutics Inc., a role they have held since April 2023. Prior to this, they worked at the same company as a Senior Scientist II from March 2021 to April 2023, as a Senior Scientist I from April 2019 to March 2021, and as a Scientist II from January 2018 to April 2019. Sirika started their career at Encoded Therapeutics Inc. as a Scientist I from November 2016 to January 2018.

Before joining Encoded Therapeutics Inc., Sirika worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Stanford University from April 2012 to November 2016. Their research focused on identifying proteins within human cells that interact with viruses and contribute to viral infection. Sirika aimed to use this knowledge to design antiviral therapies and understand cellular pathways targeted by viruses.

Prior to their time at Stanford University, Sirika worked as a Demonstrator/Tutor at Imperial College London from October 2009 to April 2011. Sirika also worked at the University of Cape Town, where they served as a Tutor/Lecturer from February 2008 to August 2008 and as a Practical Demonstrator from February 2006 to August 2008.

Overall, Sirika Pillay has gained extensive experience in molecular and cellular pharmacology, virus-host interactions, antiviral therapies, and academia throughout their career.

Sirika Pillay completed their education in a chronological order. From 1999 to 2001, they attended the British School-Muscat, although no information regarding the degree or field of study was specified. Following that, they pursued a Bachelor of Science (Honors) degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of Cape Town, which they obtained from 2002 to 2004. Sirika furthered their studies at the same institution and earned a Master's degree in Virology from 2006 to 2008. Lastly, Sirika Pillay pursued a Ph.D. in Immunology from Imperial College London, which they successfully completed between 2008 and 2011.