Luisa Orsini

University of Birmingham, UK

Luisa Orsini, Professor of Evolutionary Systems Biology and Environmental Omics at the University of Birmingham, UK, Alan Turing Fellow and CEO of Daphne Water Solutions, is a pioneering figure at the forefront of translating scientific breakthroughs into practical applications for addressing environmental challenges. With a mission to enhance environmental health through research and innovation, Orsini applies high throughput sequencing technologies, data science, and AI to investigate the impact of environmental change on freshwater ecosystems. Her work spans from uncovering the roots of biodiversity decline to developing tools and methodologies aimed at bolstering environmental resilience. Notably, Orsini devised a novel evidence-based framework facilitating a deep comprehension of the long-term effects of environmental threats on biodiversity loss, thereby pinpointing actionable strategies for conservation and prioritizing pollutants for mitigation efforts. Her interdisciplinary approach led to the groundbreaking discovery of dormant water fleas from pre-industrial times with superior abilities in purifying water compared to modern counterparts. Leveraging this finding, Orsini's team at Daphne Water Solutions developed an innovative solution for wastewater bioremediation, utilizing an engineering biology approach. Through her work, Orsini not only bridges academia and business but also catalyzes green growth and aids in achieving UN developmental goals.

https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/biosciences/orsini-luisa