INVEST visitor: Oksana Ryabinina

In the “INVEST visitors” series, we present visiting professors and fellows who have arrived at the flagship INVEST. This time we are introducing Chemical Pathologist Oksana Ryabinina.

I am Oksana Ryabinina, Chemical Pathologist, senior lecturer and researcher at the School of Medical Sciences – University of Cape Coast, Ghana.

My research priorities focus on the identification and application of biomarkers of mental health in children and adolescents, with a particular interest in the impact of chronic and non-communicable diseases on psychological well-being. I am also committed to advancing early detection and prevention strategies through laboratory medicine, including within the context of teenage pregnancy.

I also have a keen interest in the cross-cultural and contextual adaptation of biopsychosocial models to ensure relevance and effectiveness in diverse populations, particularly in low-resource settings.

Why do I want to visit INVEST?

I am deeply motivated to visit the INVEST Research Flagship Centre because of its international reputation for interdisciplinary, data-driven research, that promotes the wellbeing of children, youth, and families. The Centre’s integration of social sciences, medicine, and public health provides an ideal environment for advancing impactful and globally relevant mental health research.

I am particularly interested in INVEST’s focus on early-life conditions, mental health, and social inequality, especially as they relate to biological risk factors and social determinants. This visit will enhance my capacity to develop early detection and intervention models for low-resource settings and support my long-term goal of adapting biopsychosocial models to the realities of children and adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa.

What do I expect / hope to reach during my visit to INVEST?

During my time at INVEST, I look forward to working closely with Prof. André Sourander and his team. This visit presents a valuable opportunity to deepen our ongoing collaboration and strengthen the partnership between the University of Turku and the University of Cape Coast. I am eager to engage with other researchers, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities for joint projects. Additionally, I hope to learn from the diverse perspectives within the research community, which will enhance my own academic and professional growth.