We are back with our 'spotlight on' interview series, shedding light on inspiring women working in the field of neuroscience and reflecting on their distinct backgrounds and career journeys. The questions posed to these individuals explore the themes of job perks and challenges, developing new skills, inspirations in the neuroscience field, and goals for the future. Stay tuned to see new interviews every few weeks from women in a range of neuroscience-related professions!
This month, we interviewed Dr Joana Pinto, Senior Research Associate at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Oxford and the Principal Investigator on The Maternal Brain Project. Joana discusses the importance of the Maternal Brain Project, how essential mixed sex studies are and the challenges she has faced applying for women's health-related grants.
Can you tell us about your background in science, your current area of study, and what interested you about neuroscience initially?
What initially drew me to neuroscience was the incredible complexity of the brain and the idea that, despite all we have learned, there is still so much to uncover. As a result, throughout my studies in biomedical engineering, I found myself consistently gravitating towards neuroscience and human physiology. This ultimately led me to pursue a PhD in Biomedical Engineering, with a focus on neuroimaging, where I could delve deeper into understanding the brain and its intricate functions.
How do you apply your background in biomedical engineering to neuroscience?
My biomedical engineering background has fundamentally shaped how I study and understand brain function. By applying engineering principles, I analyse the brain as part of a dynamic, interconnected system, rather than an isolated organ. This systems-based approach allows me to explore the critical role of brain-body interactions, particularly in optimising blood flow control, an essential factor in maintaining a healthy brain.
You are the Principal Investigator of The Maternal Brain Project. Please could you tell us a bit more about it and why it is such an important project?
The Maternal Brain Project was born from a powerful realisation that most neuroscience research overlooks sex-based differences, even though many diseases disproportionately affect women, such as autoimmune disorders and dementia. Interestingly, studies show that women with pregnancy complications, like high blood pressure, face a higher risk of developing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions later in life, including dementia.
Driven by this gap in knowledge, I use advanced imaging techniques, particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to map functional changes in the brain during the postpartum period. My focus is on understanding how pregnancy and hypertension may alter blood flow regulation in the brain, with potential long-term implications for brain health.
As Principal Investigator, I am deeply involved in every aspect of the project, from study design and securing funding to participant recruitment, data collection, and analysis.
In your field of study, what gaps are there, preclinically or clinically, and how do you foresee them being closed?
Neuroscience research has historically been male-centric, often neglecting crucial physiological differences between sexes that influence disease risk and progression. Bridging these gaps demands a multifaceted approach. Preclinically, more studies using female models are needed to explore neurovascular regulation and hormonal influences on brain function. Clinically, longitudinal studies tracking women's brain health from pregnancy through to later life are essential to understanding long-term impacts. Fortunately, awareness of these disparities is growing, and I am optimistic that meaningful change is underway.
Your field of research is incredibly understudied and underfunded - what challenges have you faced with progressing your work?
One of the biggest hurdles is securing funding. Women’s health, particularly maternal brain research, has not been a priority in neuroscience, making it more difficult to compete for fellowship and grants. Convincing funding bodies of the long-term significance of pregnancy-related brain changes often requires extra effort. Additionally, since neuroscience research has traditionally been male-centric, I have encountered some scepticism about the need for sex-specific studies. This topic is often dismissed as niche, rather than fundamental to broader brain health research.
Despite these challenges, I am encouraged by the growing awareness of sex-based differences in neuroscience. By continuing to push for greater representation in research, I am optimistic that we can reshape the narrative and drive meaningful progress in this critical field.
Have you experienced any bias/discrimination as a woman in science, and/or have you witnessed any other people being subjected to bias/discrimination?
Yes, I have experienced and witnessed bias in science, and unfortunately, it doesn’t always come from where you might expect. I have seen instances where women themselves reinforce these biases, whether through internalised stereotypes, gatekeeping, or a reluctance to advocate for one another. I have also seen brilliant female scientists struggle with imposter syndrome, doubting their achievements even when they clearly deserve recognition. This isn’t just a personal issue; it’s a reflection of a culture that has historically undervalued women in STEM.
That said, I’m encouraged by the progress being made. More conversations are happening around these issues, and more initiatives, such as WiNUK, are supporting and recognising women in science.
There is still a deep-rooted gender and sex inequality around the world, including in research. With the gender ideology extremism occurring in the US, do you foresee regression in the world of science relating to this?
The progress we've made in addressing gender and sex disparities in research is undeniable, but it remains fragile, especially in the face of political and ideological extremism.
That said, the global scientific community is increasingly recognising the importance of sex- and gender-inclusive research, and I believe the overall trajectory remains forward, with scientists continuing to push for evidence-based research and policies.
You took part in the Commission on the Status of Women - what did being a delegate involve and how was the experience? How can people get involved?
In 2023, I was a UN Women UK participant in the 68th session of the Commission on the Status of Women. I had the opportunity to join live sessions streamed from the UN Headquarters in New York, which allowed me to stay informed about the Commission's work and key issues being discussed. Additionally, I connected with several women's advocacy networks, which provided valuable opportunities to network with people from around the world and contribute to the ongoing advocacy for women's rights and gender equality across various sectors.
What are the most enjoyable aspects of your current job?
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my current job is the opportunity to work as a team and mentor students. Watching someone develop their skills, build confidence, and succeed in their roles is incredibly rewarding!
What are some of the challenging aspects of your current job? And, what are you currently trying to get better at in your neuroscience job?
One of the challenges I face is learning to say "no". There are always exciting opportunities to collaborate, take on new projects, and support others. However, balancing these with my existing responsibilities can sometimes feel overwhelming. Nevertheless, over time and with experience, I believe I have become better at setting boundaries and prioritising tasks more effectively.
What goals do you have for your career, and where do you see yourself in the next few years professionally?
In the next few years, I hope to be doing work that excites me and feels meaningful! Whether that involves advancing my research, collaborating with others, or taking on new leadership roles, I want to stay engaged in work that truly makes a difference.
Which female-identifying people in your life inspire you, in neuroscience and beyond?
The students, academics, and mothers I work with constantly inspire me. My colleagues motivate me with their curiosity, dedication, and passion for learning, while the mothers teach me invaluable lessons about perseverance and empathy.
What advice would you give to female-identifying people at the early stages of their neuroscience careers?
My advice to individuals at the early stages of their neuroscience careers would be to find something you're truly passionate about. This will drive you through the inevitable challenges and setbacks, and it will keep you motivated even when things get tough.
And finally, congratulations on your win at the WiNUK awards event! Please can you tell us:
How you felt to be nominated and to win the Leading Researcher of the Year: Sex/Gender in Neuroscience Award
How you think this will shape your work moving forward
"What is perhaps the most impressive about Joana is her commitment to the promotion of gender and sex-inclusive research. Neuroscience, specifically, is a field with a severe underrepresentation of women – including in those conducting the research, and those included in research studies – and Joana has been steadfast in her commitment to advocating for the inclusion of women and gender minorities in neuroscience research. She has made significant advances investigating the impact of pregnancy outcomes on brain vascular health and on the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, and has communicated this science widely, engaging the wider community in her work. She is an exceptionally motivating communicator, and has secured prestigious funding to support her research through the Maternal Brain Study. Joana is most deserving of this recognition, and I have no doubt that she will continue to lead in this field." Taken from Joana Pinto's Award Nomination Statement.
Honestly, I was deeply humbled and thrilled to be recognised in such a way. Being nominated in the first place was already a huge honour, and winning the award was both a validation of the work that my team and I do and a reminder of the importance of continuing to push boundaries in neuroscience.
This recognition motivates me to continue pushing for greater inclusivity in neuroscience research. I also hope it encourages more people, especially women and underrepresented groups, to pursue careers in neuroscience, and to highlight the importance of looking at sex and gender as key factors in understanding the brain.
The Leading Researcher of the Year: Sex/Gender in Neuroscience Award was sponsored by the UK Dementia Research Institute.
This interview was conducted by Rebecca Pope and edited by Rachel Grasmeder Allen, with graphics produced by Lilly Green. If you enjoyed this article, be the first to be notified about new posts by signing up to become a WiNUK member (top right of this page)! Interested in writing for WiNUK yourself? Contact us through the blog page and the editors will be in touch.
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