Early Stage Researchers

What is your project/research about?

My PhD project primarily deals with autoantibodies and their detection in neuroinflammatory diseases of the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. However, as a part of my PhD training, during my “Secondment” I’ve also worked on human B cell trafficking across human in vitro models of the brain barriers.

Why did you apply for a Marie Curie ITN and especially this project?

I think, the opportunity to work with some of the most renowned scientists in their field of research brought together by this one network creating a common platform was very attractive. Also the Marie Curie ITN gives the prospect of experiencing a flavour of both academia and industry which is very useful to understand how science is an integrated effort by both these sectors.

I did my Masters’ in Infection and Immunobiology with a specialization in Immunology where one of my projects dealt with autoantibodies in the context of neuromyelitis optica (NMO), which is another neuroinflammatory disorder of the CNS. Working on that project fueled my interest in neuroinflammation in general and therefore the application to this specific project looking at autoantibodies in neuroinflammation and later also working on B cells.

What is so fascinating for you on research in general?

Questioning the unknown in general fascinates me. I love to learn, understand and apply the known to answer what is unknown.

What do you do in your free time?

I play quite a bit of sport. I do martial arts, mostly kickboxing and jujitsu and I also play tennis. I enjoy traveling whenever I get the chance to do so.

What are your plans for your future?

I would certainly like to stay in research for as long as I can! As of now, I want to continue with my study on B cell trafficking across the brain barriers which I briefly started as my Secondment.

Regarding our meetings:

Please give a short summary what you remember about are Network Meetings?

To me, our first network meeting was perhaps the most entertaining and interesting one, especially getting to know each other and the projects and the first impression! I was so happy and proud knowing that I would be a part of this wonderful group of PhD students!

The presentations were super useful in terms of feedback, discussions, speaking in front of a laregr audience.

What are the impressions and learnings you take with you from each meeting?

The talks by the diversity of guest lecturers were always very exciting and interesting!

What was the most useful workshop?

Biometry and statistic