Leyla earned her Ph.D. in computational biophysics from the University of Waikato, New Zealand, in 2016. Then as a research fellow at the University of Auckland, she led the development of a kidney model where she integrated research insights to untangle the complexities of kidney function using mathematical models. Currently, her research centres on investigating toxin-transporter interactions in PT cells. Traditionally, dialysis has been the primary therapy for patients with end-stage kidney disease. However, its long-term efficacy is limited due to the retention of uremic toxins in the blood, resulting from the absence of active transport functionality in the PT. The intricate interactions between PT transporters and toxins remain largely unexplored, making it challenging to understand their effects on toxin removal in vitro. This study aims to shed light on the complexities of toxin-transporter interactions in the PT, thereby informing the design of bioartificial kidneys and addressing transporter-related issues in uremic patients. Beyond my professional pursuits, I enjoy exploring my favourite books, engaging in motivational talks, swimming, and going for long hikes.