Dr. Ferrins’ research is focused on drug discovery for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), which are a collection of 20 communicable diseases as defined by the World Health Organization. Currently, she is leading three projects in the Pollastri lab which focus on repurposing known human kinase inhibitors for use against the parasites responsible for malaria (P. falciparum), and the NTDs human African trypanosomiasis (Trypanosoma brucei), Chagas disease (T. cruzi), leishmaniasis (Leishmania spp.), and schistosomiasis (S. mansoni).

Dr. Ferrins has also been involved with the International Younger Chemists Network (IYCN) since early 2017, first as chair of the Public Outreach Subcommittee and more recently as the vice-chair of the organization. The goal of IYCN is to reach like-minded scientists and create a platform for scientific exchange. With a focus on building a global network, IYCN is working to spread scientific knowledge, mentorship, and encourage a passion for chemistry in all.