Dr Shiva Montasseri is a researcher specialising in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and their interactions with physiological fluids and human cell lines, with a strong focus on drug delivery applications. Her doctoral research explored the effects of five different LNP formulations and structures on human cell lines, alongside investigating how physiological conditions influence LNP stability, protein corona formation, and structural behaviour. This work has provided valuable insights into optimising LNPs for enhanced stability and efficacy in complex biological environments.
Shiva has extensive expertise in surface chemistry and nanoparticle characterisation techniques, including Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering (SAXS)—with multiple successful experiments at the Australian Synchrotron—Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Zeta Potential, and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA). Their technical skill set also spans Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM), flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, cell culture, and cytotoxicity assays, supporting a comprehensive understanding of LNP–cell interactions.
In addition, she is proficient in advanced analytical chemistry techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, UV-VIS-NIR spectroscopy, FTIR, proteomics, and capillary electrophoresis (CE). Beyond technical expertise, she is an experienced mentor and trainer, having supported PhD, master’s, and undergraduate students across disciplines at the Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (University of Newcastle) and through teaching during their PhD.
With a growing publication record and a passion for collaborative research, Shiva is committed to advancing nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems through innovative, multidisciplinary approaches.
