{"id":4001,"date":"2025-07-25T17:21:06","date_gmt":"2025-07-25T16:21:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.manchester.ac.uk\/lydia-becker-institute\/?p=4001"},"modified":"2025-07-25T17:21:06","modified_gmt":"2025-07-25T16:21:06","slug":"profile-charles-gyasi","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sites.manchester.ac.uk\/lydia-becker-institute\/2025\/07\/25\/profile-charles-gyasi\/","title":{"rendered":"Profile: Charles Gyasi"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” fullwidth=”on” next_background_color=”#000000″ global_module=”322″][et_pb_fullwidth_menu global_parent=”322″ _builder_version=”3.0.106″ menu_id=”7″ submenu_direction=”downwards” fullwidth_menu=”off” background_layout=”dark” module_class=”main-navigation” \/][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”off” specialty=”on” prev_background_color=”#000000″ next_background_color=”#1d1d1d”][et_pb_column type=”2_3″ specialty_columns=”2″][et_pb_row_inner locked=”off”][et_pb_column_inner type=”4_4″ saved_specialty_column_type=”2_3″][et_pb_post_title _builder_version=”3.0.106″ title=”on” meta=”on” author=”on” date=”on” categories=”on” comments=”on” featured_image=”on” featured_placement=”above” text_color=”dark” text_background=”off” locked=”on” parent_locked=”off” \/][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.17.6″ background_layout=”light” parent_locked=”off”]<\/p>\n

Charles Gyasi<\/a> is a PhD student from our\u00a0Wellcome Trust Immunomatrix in Complex Disease PhD Programme<\/a>\u00a0based in the Grencis Lab<\/a>.\u00a0Hailing from Ghana, read all about Charles’s exciting research journey,\u00a0starting with early work on malaria and neglected tropical diseases at\u00a0the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana, then studying lymphatic filariasis at the\u00a0University of Bonn in Germany, and now exploring how our body\u2019s circadian rhythms influence immune responses and gut health as a PhD student at the Lydia Becker Institute here in Manchester.\u00a0<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

Please introduce yourself and tell us what inspired you to pursue\u202fa PhD here at the Becker? \u202f<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

I\u2019m originally from Ghana, where my passion for science began with a simple curiosity: how does the immune system protect us, and what happens when it goes wrong? While I once dreamt of becoming a medical doctor, I later realised that my true calling was to explore these big questions through research.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That journey began during my undergraduate studies at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where I investigated how blood protein levels could help predict illness severity in malaria patients. It was my first real taste of scientific discovery, and I was hooked. I later pursued a master\u2019s degree in clinical microbiology at the same university, supported by the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine (KCCR). There, I joined a team focused on neglected tropical diseases. Under the mentorship of Professor Alexander Debrah and Dr (Mrs) Linda Debrah, I contributed to a clinical trial that demonstrated how an alternative treatment (e.g., doxycycline) could slow the progression of lymphatic filariasis-associated lymphedema, a painful and disabling condition caused by parasitic infection. It was also during this time that I developed a strong foundation in multidisciplinary research, scientific writing, and research integrity.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Later, I was awarded an ERASMUS+ scholarship to study at the University of Bonn in Germany. There, I focused on patients suffering from multiple health conditions linked to long-term lymphatic filariasis lymphedema. That experience opened my eyes to the global nature of health challenges and the power of international collaboration. It also led me to the Becker Institute, where I found a research programme that perfectly matched my growing interest in how timing, inflammation, and the immune system are all connected.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Doing a PhD here is not just an academic step, it\u2019s the fulfilment of a vision I\u2019ve carried with me from Ghana: to use science as a tool for impact. I\u2019m excited to be part of a research community where collaboration, curiosity, and purpose come together to tackle some of the world\u2019s most complex health problems.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Can you tell us about the research you’re working on at the moment?<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

My research explores how the body\u2019s internal clock, our circadian rhythm, regulates immune responses and gut health. I focus on the gene <\/span>Tsc22d3<\/span><\/i>, which encodes the glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) protein. This protein plays a pivotal role in cellular processes such as growth, survival, and stress response, particularly during inflammation. Using a <\/span>Trichuris muris<\/span><\/i> helminth infection model, I investigate how GILZ expression in immune and intestinal epithelial cells influences type 2 immune responses and mucin production, the protective substances lining the gut. A key objective of my project is to understand how GILZ is controlled by the circadian clock and how this temporal regulation impacts intestinal homeostasis. <\/span><\/p>\n

By bridging circadian biology, immunology, and mucosal health, my research will provide novel mechanisms that could inform therapeutic strategies for chronic inflammatory and intestinal diseases.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What are your career goals?\u202f<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

My long-term goal is to be a shoulder for the rising of many, uplifting the next generation of researchers and global health advocates, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. I want my journey to serve as a platform that empowers others to rise, lead, and innovate.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Grounded in my current research at the intersection of immunology, circadian biology, and the extracellular matrix in infectious disease, I focus on how immune responses are shaped by molecular timing and environmental cues. I am particularly driven to address diseases that disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries and to ensure that scientific discoveries lead to real-world health solutions.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

To build on this foundation, I plan to pursue a competitive postdoctoral fellowship, establish my own lab, and lead collaborative research linking the Global North and South. I am committed to mentoring African scientists and contributing to policies that promote equity and access in global research.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ultimately, I want my career to create impact, expand opportunities, and provide a pathway for others to rise just as I have.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What advice would you give to someone who\u2019s daunted by the idea of pursuing a PhD?<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

First, I would say: it\u2019s normal to feel daunted. A PhD isn\u2019t just a degree; it\u2019s a journey of growth, uncertainty, and self-discovery. But it\u2019s also one of the most rewarding paths you can take if you\u2019re genuinely curious.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Coming from Ghana, I once saw a PhD as something distant and almost unreachable. But I\u2019ve learned that what matters most isn\u2019t where you start. It\u2019s your willingness to learn, adapt, and stay focused on your \u201cwhy.\u201d For me, that \u201cwhy\u201d has always been the desire to use science to improve lives, especially in under-resourced communities. If you\u2019re thinking about a PhD, surround yourself with mentors, ask bold questions, and don\u2019t be afraid to take the first step, even if you don\u2019t feel fully ready. Growth happens in discomfort, and the journey will teach you just as much about yourself as it does about your research.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Lastly, remember that you don\u2019t have to do it alone. Science is a team sport, and there are communities, both local and global, that are ready to support you. Believe in your potential, start small, but don\u2019t end small.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What’s your favourite thing about being part of the immunology community at Manchester?<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

What I value most is the supportive environment that encourages learning through failure. In my first year, many of my experiments didn\u2019t go as planned. Instead of feeling isolated, I had a team around me who encouraged me, helped me troubleshoot, and guided me toward better approaches. That culture of support made a huge difference in how I grew as a researcher.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Another standout aspect is the collaborative spirit among the principal investigators and research teams. You\u2019re never working in isolation. There are groups using similar techniques and facing similar challenges, which creates opportunities to share knowledge, skills, and resources. It makes the research journey feel less like a solo mission and more like an adventure shared with others.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Being part of this community has not only strengthened my science but also reminded me that progress in research often comes through collective effort and open dialogue.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

And finally, what do you like to do in your spare time?<\/span><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n

I deeply value quality time with family and friends. They have been a constant source of strength throughout my journey. Whether it\u2019s sharing a meal, having meaningful conversations, or simply unwinding together, those moments keep me grounded and offer perspective beyond the lab. I also appreciate quiet reflection and personal growth, often through reading, prayer as a Christian, or listening to music. These simple yet meaningful habits help me recharge, stay centred on my purpose, and show up fully in both life and research.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Follow Charles on <\/em>Bluesky: @cgyasi.bsky.social<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Photo:\u00a0Brian Chan<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_post_nav _builder_version=”3.0.106″ in_same_term=”off” show_prev=”on” show_next=”on” prev_text=”Previous” next_text=”Next” locked=”on” parent_locked=”off” \/][et_pb_comments _builder_version=”3.0.106″ show_avatar=”on” show_reply=”on” show_count=”on” background_layout=”light” header_font_size_tablet=”51″ header_line_height_tablet=”2″ custom_button=”on” button_icon_placement=”right” button_text_color=”#ffffff” button_use_icon=”off” locked=”on” parent_locked=”off” button_text_size__hover_enabled=”off” button_text_size__hover=”null” button_one_text_size__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_text_size__hover=”null” button_two_text_size__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_text_size__hover=”null” button_text_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_text_color__hover=”null” button_one_text_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_text_color__hover=”null” button_two_text_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_text_color__hover=”null” button_border_width__hover_enabled=”off” button_border_width__hover=”null” button_one_border_width__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_border_width__hover=”null” button_two_border_width__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_border_width__hover=”null” button_border_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_border_color__hover=”null” button_one_border_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_border_color__hover=”null” button_two_border_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_border_color__hover=”null” button_border_radius__hover_enabled=”off” button_border_radius__hover=”null” button_one_border_radius__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_border_radius__hover=”null” button_two_border_radius__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_border_radius__hover=”null” button_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=”off” button_letter_spacing__hover=”null” button_one_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_letter_spacing__hover=”null” button_two_letter_spacing__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_letter_spacing__hover=”null” button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_bg_color__hover=”null” button_one_bg_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_one_bg_color__hover=”null” button_two_bg_color__hover_enabled=”off” button_two_bg_color__hover=”null” \/][et_pb_text admin_label=”Related posts” _builder_version=”3.0.106″ background_layout=”light” locked=”on” parent_locked=”off”]<\/p>\n

Related<\/h1>\n

Related posts:<\/h3>
<\/div>
<\/div>
<\/div>

Profile: Nabina Pun<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/a>
<\/div>

Profile: Rachel Finlay<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/a>
<\/div>

Profile: Iashia Mulholland<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>
<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_sidebar _builder_version=”3.0.106″ area=”sidebar-1″ orientation=”left” show_border=”off” background_layout=”light” locked=”on” \/][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Connect Title” custom_padding=”0px||0px|” _builder_version=”3.0.90″ background_color=”#1d1d1d” module_class=”footer-section” prev_background_color=”#ffffff” global_module=”380″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” global_parent=”380″ locked=”off” allow_player_pause=”off” parallax=”off” parallax_method=”on” parallax_1=”off” parallax_method_1=”off” parallax_2=”off” parallax_method_2=”off” parallax_3=”off” parallax_method_3=”off” make_fullwidth=”off” use_custom_width=”off” width_unit=”on” use_custom_gutter=”off” make_equal=”off” module_id=”footer-row” _builder_version=”3.0.89″][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Contact Us Title” global_parent=”380″ background_layout=”dark” text_text_color=”#ffffff” parent_locked=”off” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”]<\/p>\n

Contact Us<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Contact Us” global_parent=”380″ text_text_color=”#aaaaaa” parent_locked=”off” background_layout=”light” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” module_class=”contact-us” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.17.6″]<\/p>\n

+44 (0)161 306 3771<\/a><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Find Us Title” global_parent=”380″ background_layout=”dark” text_text_color=”#ffffff” parent_locked=”off” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.17.6″]<\/p>\n

Find Us<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Address” global_parent=”380″ background_layout=”dark” text_orientation=”left” use_border_color=”off” module_id=”address” parent_locked=”off” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial” _builder_version=”3.17.6″]<\/p>\n

Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation
<\/a>Core Technology Facility\u00a0
46 Grafton Street
M13 9NT<\/a><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″][et_pb_text admin_label=”Connect Title” global_parent=”380″ background_layout=”dark” text_text_color=”#ffffff” parent_locked=”off” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” background_size=”initial”]<\/p>\n

Connect With Us<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_code admin_label=”Social Media” global_parent=”380″ parent_locked=”off” _builder_version=”3.17.6″]<\/p>\n