Whitehead's research considers the development of drug delivery systems for gene therapy.[9] She is interested in the development of nanoparticle materials to deliver messenger RNA (mRNA) to specific cells.[10] Targeted mRNA delivery provides physicians with a personalized strategy to treat genetic disorders.[11] Alongside mRNA, Whitehead has studied small interfering RNA, which can be used to control gene expression.[12] In general, mRNA promotes gene expression, whilst siRNA is used to silence over-expressed genes.[13] She focuses on the development of delivery systems for leukocytes (including B cells) and intestinal epithelium.[6][14] A challenge with using mRNA for therapeutic purposes is that the body often recognizes intruder mRNA and attacks it, triggering an immune response.[13] She worked with Katalin Karikó and Drew Weissman on the development of the lipid nanoparticles that enabled the mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines.[15][16]
In an attempt to better design drug delivery systems, Whitehead has investigated the cellular components of breast milk.[17][18] She is interested in whether it is possible to genetically engineer cells to treat children's allergies, or orally administer vaccines to infants.[17]
Whitehead is passionate about science communication and improving public trust in science.[19] In 202, she delivered a TED talk on lipid nanoparticles and how mRNA will transform biology.[20] In 2022, Whitehead delivered the convocation address at the Carnegie Mellon University.[21]
