Janessa is a research microbiologist with expertise in the molecular diagnostics and host pathogen interactions of upper respiratory tract pathogens that cause disease in children. Her research is focused on the colonisation and infection of group A Streptococcus in paediatric populations. She leads projects centered on GAS clinical diagnostics, the oropharyngeal microbiome and host responses to GAS. 

Janessa completed a BSc (2008), Honours (2010) and PhD (2015) with the University of Western Australia. During her studies, she worked to understand the molecular microbiology of pathogen detection, attachment to host niches. This included an honours degree studying meningococcal disease, and a PhD studying NTHi ear infections. She is supported by a Stan Perron Fellowship, and currently leads local and national grants as CIA including a Department of Health WACRF grant and NHMRC Ideas Grant.