PhD student, Annibaldi Lab, CMMC Cologne

“My academic journey plunged me into the intricate world of biological pathways and cancer research – an experience for which I am ever grateful. As an international student, I find myself at the nexus of science and culture. Therefore, beyond my academic pursuits, I envision a vibrant community where every voice is heard, and every contribution valued, thereby enriching not only our academic journey but also our shared human experience.”

PhD student, García-Sáez Lab, Uni Cologne

“During my studies of Physics I became increasingly interested in Biology which is why I am now a PhD student in Ana Garcia-Saez lab that does extensive research on Molecular Cell Biophysics of a variety of different cell deaths. In my project I am doing research on B-cell lymphoma in the context of apoptosis. Aspiring that my work may lead to uncovering nature’s principles or even have an impact on our understanding of diseases drives me and keeps me motivated.”

PhD Student, Peltzer/Pallasch Lab, Uni Cologne

"I am a PhD student in AG Peltzer, focusing on the role of cIAP2 in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). My research aims to unravel the molecular mechanisms by which cIAP2 regulates apoptosis, immune signaling, and tumor progression in CLL. By integrating cellular and molecular biology approaches, I seek to provide novel insights into targeted therapeutic strategies for CLL treatment. Beyond research, I am passionate about scientific collaboration and innovation in cancer biology. Feel free to connect with me for discussions on apoptosis regulation, leukemia pathogenesis, and translational oncology."

PhD Student, Küppers Lab, Institut für Zellbiologie (Tumorforschung), Essen

“Before joining the lymphoma field, I completed my BSc and MSc in Chemical Biology in Dortmund with a main interest in medicinal chemistry, structural biology and biochemistry. I am currently working on my PhD in the Lab of Ralf Küppers in Essen (Project C01). There I am trying to elucidate the inter- and intratumoral heterogeneity of classical Hodgkin lymphoma and the mechanisms behind the frequent occurrence of multinucleated Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg tumor cells. Techniques used in this project include most prominently single cell RNA-Seq, CITE-Seq, FACS, cell culture, western blot and shRNA.

It is a privilege to work in a highly challenging and fascinating field that allows us to make a direct or indirect difference to the lives of real people. It sometimes feels quite daunting, but in the end it is also pretty cool.

Outside of the lab, I enjoy hiking, reading comics, playing D&D with friends, and anything else that gives me a creative outlet. I am also a first-time parent, so that takes up a lot of my time these days.

In short, I try to be the best scientist I can be and contribute something, while maintaining a functional work-life balance.”   

Postdoctoral researcher, Oellerich Lab, Uni Frankfurt

"I hold a Bachelor's degree in Biology and a Master's degree in Medical Biology, followed by a PhD in Pharmacy. During my doctoral studies, I conducted extensive research in the area of drug development, specifically focusing on HSP90 inhibitors. My work involved validating binding modes through biochemical and biophysical assays, as well as high-throughput drug screening and various cellular and molecular biology assays. Since 2022, I have been working as a Postdoctoral researcher and Team Lead in the Research Lab of Prof. Thomas Oellerich. My specialization lies in identifying, validating, and exploiting vulnerabilities in cancer using data science, molecular biology, and drug development techniques. I enjoy working in collaborative and translational research environments, and my extensive experience in oncology research enables me to effectively integrate various areas of expertise."