Who I am:
I am a biotechnology student, currently pursuing my master’s degree at the Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, UG&MUG. Since the beginning of my studies, my scientific interests have been oriented around cellular biology and cancer biology, but over time they have shifted more towards genetics and epigenetics. I completed my bachelor’s degree with a thesis on the relationship between the effect of blue light treatment on embryonic stem cells and the hardness of the growing media used. My master’s project focuses on formulating a new multi-compound combination of chemotherapeutics and nutraceuticals that would be more effective in the treatment of hematopoietic and triple-negative breast cancers. My previous international experience includes a recent 5-month SEA-EU internship at Université de Bretagne Occidentale in Brest, France, where I worked on mutations in genes of the human spliceosome, as well as a 5-month Erasmus+ student exchange in Belgium, at Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Katholieke Universiteit Leuven.

Personally, I am passionate about nature, botany, and zoology. My hobbies include building artificial ecosystems in the form of vivariums and aquariums, as well as drawing, 3D modeling, listening to independent rock music, and delving into sci-fi and fantasy universes. My favorite joke is that I chose a path in biotechnology after reading Michael Crichton’s Jurassic Park novel – which is only partially a joke :).

My BioLAB work in the lab focuses on:
I will join the laboratory of Dr Xiaowei Lu at the University of Virginia. My work there will focus on investigating the role of mutations in the CEP250 gene on the function of the inner ear and the development of Usher syndrome.

I decided to apply for a BioLAB program because:
I decided to apply for a BioLAB Program because I find it a very developing experience. I believe that participation in the program will increase my value as a researcher and improve my capabilities in addressing complex biological problems, providing me with an excellent foundation for my future doctoral studies and scientific career.

After completing my stay on BioLAB Program I would like to:
My ambition for the future is to pursue PhD studies in the field of genetics or epigenetics. My top destination at the moment is the Netherlands, but I am also looking forward to exploring existing opportunities in the USA.