London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Could you briefly describe your current work?

My current work sits at the intersection of biotechnology, oncology innovation, biomaterials and patient-centred care. I am the co-founder of three life-science companies based in Limassol, Cyprus: Theramir Ltd, which is developing microRNA-based extracellular vesicle therapeutics for metastatic cancers; Promed Bioscience Ltd, focused on medical-grade manufacturing of collagen biomaterials and bioinks; and RSL Revolutionary Labs Ltd, which develops and produces dermaceutical and medical-grade skincare solutions for sensitive and compromised skin, including people affected by oncology treatments. Although each company has a different focus, they are connected by one purpose: translating science into products that can improve lives. My work spans early-stage research, intellectual property, clinical evidence, manufacturing, regulatory pathways and international commercialisation.

How has the MSc in Medical Microbiology at LSHTM contributed to your career journey?

My MSc in Medical Microbiology at LSHTM was an important part of my scientific and professional journey. It strengthened my understanding of disease, infection, host-pathogen interactions and the wider relationship between science and public health. Beyond the academic training, I still remember the energy and unique atmosphere of such a historic school; a place where science felt deeply connected to responsibility, vulnerable populations and real human need. That mindset has stayed with me throughout my career, from academic research to entrepreneurship, and continues to shape how I build companies that aim to bring innovation closer to patients and those most in need.

Your work is deeply rooted in both scientific innovation and personal purpose. How has your journey shaped the way you think about impact, and what continues to drive you forward today?

My work is deeply personal. I lost both my father and my sister to cancer, and this changed the way I understood science, medicine and urgency. When illness touches your own family, research is no longer abstract. You understand what patients and families are waiting for: better treatments, better support, better quality of life and more compassionate solutions. This experience shaped the way I think about impact. For me, impact is not only about publishing research or developing technology. It is about whether science can move forward, be translated, manufactured, tested, approved and ultimately reach the people who need it. What continues to drive me is the belief that innovation must remain connected to patients and real human need.

Congratulations on being a StudyUK country winner for Cyprus and a global finalist! What an amazing achievement. What did this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

Receiving the Study UK Alumni Award in Cyprus and later being selected as a global finalist was deeply meaningful and emotional. The UK shaped so much of who I am, both personally and professionally. My years of study and research there were not always easy, but they gave me resilience, discipline, international perspective and confidence. Personally, the award felt like a beautiful full-circle moment and a reminder of where I started, the people and institutions that believed in me, and the responsibility I now feel to give back. Professionally, it was also a recognition of the work we are building in Cyprus in biotechnology, oncology and life sciences. Coming from a smaller ecosystem means that innovation often requires persistence, personal risk and the courage to create pathways where none existed before. This recognition reminded me that meaningful science and entrepreneurship can grow from smaller countries too.

Looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of your work, and what message would you share with fellow LSHTM alumni and the next generation of global health leaders?

Looking ahead, I am most excited by the possibility of bringing advanced biotech innovation closer to patients, while also helping to show that strong life-science companies can be built from Cyprus. I believe the future of healthcare will depend on collaboration between science, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, regulation, investment and patient voices. No single part is enough on its own. To fellow LSHTM alumni and the next generation of global health leaders, my message would be to not underestimate the power of your training, your network or your personal story. Global health needs excellent science, but it also needs courage, empathy and implementation. Whether you work in research, policy, clinical practice, public health or entrepreneurship, your work can create change when it remains connected to real human need.

Is there anything else you would like to share?

LSHTM gave me part of the foundation for the journey I am on today. Since then, I have learned that impact is built step by step — through knowledge, persistence, collaboration and purpose. I hope my journey can encourage other scientists, alumni and young innovators, especially those coming from smaller countries or ecosystems, to believe that they can create meaningful change. You do not always need to come from the biggest market to build something with global relevance. You need strong science, resilience, trusted collaborators and a clear purpose.

LinkedIn: Dr Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades

• Theramir Ltd
• Promed Bioscience Ltd
• RSL Revolutionary Labs Ltd / euSKIN®