De novo

De novo, 2020, illustration, shows the SARS-COV-2 virus decorated by antibodies against the viral spike proteins. Onisha created this artwork to show the power and beauty of science in contrast to the devastation caused by the virus. The pandemic made her realise the privileges she has as a scientist, and she wonders if the treatments she works on will ever reach the people who need them the most.

Onisha Patel is a structural biologist from Australia. She is a “Superstar of STEM”, a programme aimed at promoting the visibility of women working in STEM. As a STEM role model, Onisha works to promote the intersection of art and science willing to raise awareness of medical research.

Onisha

Patel

Structural Biologist

Australia