Zara Mammone

Zara Mammone

Future Leaders 2026
Monash University
Victoria

Focus are

Thriving tech sector

About me

I knew I’d found my calling when I was up at 2 a.m. reading research papers about naturally occurring, hollow nanostructures called vaults. I was completely fascinated and determined to use super-resolution microscopy to study them at the nanoscale. By providing insights into their cellular organisation and dynamics, we can further explore their potential as innovative drug delivery systems. In my research, I am driven by raw curiosity and a desire to translate fundamental science into meaningful biotechnology outcomes. I aspire to build a career that encourages cross-disciplinary work, while contributing to an inclusive and innovative research culture. Outside the lab, I am musically inclined and play the violin, piano, and guitar, though my proudest skill is crushing nearly anyone in Mario Kart! To truly switch off and recharge, I find a lot of peace in gardening, a hobby I share with my Pappou. Harvesting my own food and flowers is one of the most rewarding feelings, although the satisfaction of research will always be just a bit more gratifying.
My research on vault nanoparticles sits at the intersection of fundamental science and biotechnology, with the potential to enable more targeted and accessible therapies. The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship provides me the opportunity to grow as a cross-disciplinary leader who can translate discovery into impact, while contributing to a more inclusive and innovative future.

My passions

  • Vault nanoparticle biology
  • Super-resolution microscopy techniques and applications
  • Computational image analysis
  • Interdisciplinary research & collaboration
  • Music and gardening