Dr Jan Schaefer is a research officer studying infectious and inflammatory diseases in the lung. His work focuses on developing novel therapeutics for these respiratory conditions. In 2025, Dr Schaefer won WEHI’s InnoVision competition, an entrepreneurship program that supports the translation of research innovations into commercial solutions, for his research-driven venture idea.

The thing that gets me out of bed in the morning is… the chance to explore new scientific ideas in the lab and progress my research into targeted drug delivery. I am particularly excited about my work on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a progressive lung condition affecting millions worldwide.

My research focuses on selective drug delivery to macrophages – immune cells that normally defend the lungs but become damaging in COPD. I’m developing targeted nanoparticles to safely deliver RNA therapies directly to these macrophages, to minimise side effects and improve precision.

What I love about studying infectious and inflammatory diseases is… you are pitted against a clear enemy such as a pathogen or a disease-causing mechanism. The goal is to fight and outmanoeuvre these threats to develop a new defence system.

The most inspiring people I’ve met at WEHI are… Dr Marcel Doerflinger and Dr Lee Booty. Dr Doerflinger, my former lab mentor and now lab head, shaped my scientific thinking and technical skills and keeps encouraging my scientific ideas and ambitions. Dr Booty, a WEHI alum and venture principal scientist who returned to the institute after working in industry, has been instrumental on the commercialisation side. He brings deep insight into how to position academic research and always offers fantastic advice and support to my career development.

The thing I’m proudest of is… winning the InnoVision competition, and the collaborations that have emerged from this opportunity to present my work. It was great to be able to bridge the gap between my academic career and industry. There were six very good projects in the program, so I was honoured to be chosen as the winner. The prize included a travel stipend and I’m excited to have the opportunity to travel to academic conferences to present my research, and attend summits and events with industry partners.

One of the biggest challenges I’ve overcome was… starting my PhD remotely in Germany during COVID-19 as the Australian borders were shut. It was tough starting my project without my research team and colleagues around me.

I love being a scientist at WEHI because… it’s a supportive work and research environment. I am lucky to work in a very collaborative research team where everyone helps each other out. No matter the research question, there is always someone happy to lend a hand, share their experiences or connect you to the Parkville ecosystem.

For me, collaboration means… exciting opportunities to engage with your colleagues and other scientists, get feedback on your work and help each other as research progresses.

When I’m not in the lab, I like to… clear my head doing exercise on the weekend. One thing I love about Melbourne is exploring new cafes and finding the best ones.