Participant biographies

Adam Ustaszewski | Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences

A graduate of the interdisciplinary Bioinformatics program jointly conducted by Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań and Poznań University of Technology. Research work began in April 2016, followed by a doctoral project supported by an EMBO fellowship. Currently, the focus is on the genetics and epigenetics of hematological malignancies, including Hodgkin lymphoma and myeloid leukemia, as well as solid tumors such as head and neck cancers, particularly squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and salivary gland tumors. Key expertise includes the analysis and interpretation of next-generation sequencing data, statistical analyses, data integration across various experimental platforms, data mining, machine learning, and scripting in R, Python, and Bash. Additionally, he conducts numerous analyses in the wet lab, including functional assays, utilizing a variety of available research techniques.

Albina Farkhutdinova | Hertie-Institute for Clinical Brain Research

My name is Albina Farkhutdinova, and I am currently a PhD student at the Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research in Tübingen, Germany. My research focuses on developing alternative therapy options for Dravet Syndrome, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. My project lies at the intersection of medicine and neuroscience, reflecting my deep interest in interdisciplinary approaches – a passion that began during my studies. As a medical student and later a practicing neurologist, I encountered a wide range of neurological disorders. However, I often felt dissatisfied with the limitations of current treatments. This motivated me to transition into experimental science, where I could study diseases on a molecular level and contribute to advancing therapeutic solutions. To build this expertise, I received in-depth training in Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience at the University of Tübingen. During my PhD, I began exploring the potential of single-cell omics techniques. Participating in the single-cell RNA sequencing virtual course is an important first step toward deepening my expertise in this cutting-edge field and further advancing my research goals. In my free time, I enjoy knitting, cross-stitching and dancing.

Alejandra Rodríguez Sosa | Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Alejandra is a Spanish Biologist who received her BS in Biology from the Universidad de Madrid in 2016. Upon graduation, she secured a scholarship from Santander UK where she obtained an MSc with Distinction in Drug Design and Biomedical Sciences at Edinburgh Napier University. Her dissertation on the metastatic pathway of Honokiol was also awarded the Class Medal. After her first MSc, she secured an internship as a Research Assistant at Medannex LTD, in Edinburgh. She furthered her education with a second MSc in Bioinformatics at the University of Glasgow, graduating with Merit in 2020. She joined the EpiGastro group in 2021 as an IRC Enterprise scholar and her PhD focuses on finding new biomarkers for gastrointestinal cancers, using machine learning methods.

Aleksandra Aizenshtadt | University of Oslo, Center of Excelence “Hybrid Technology Hub”

I’m a researcher at the Hybrid Technology Hub, Center of Excellence, University of Oslo. My work focuses on developing advanced in vitro disease models using organoids and Organ-on-a-Chip (OoC) technologies, with a particular focus on liver biology and immunoaging. Currently, I am working on a project investigating the dynamic resilience of liver tissue, exploring liver-immune cell interactions, metabolic changes, and processes related to immunoaging. I am particularly interested in the heterogeneity of liver cells and their cross-talk during disease progression, which is pivotal to understanding and potentially mitigating liver-related disorders. My expertise spans stem cell differentiation, developmental biology, and cell biology. I am motivated by the potential of bioengineering and advanced cell models to bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications. My work aims to contribute to the development of more accurate, human-relevant models for studying diseases and testing therapies. Outside the lab, I enjoy hiking and photography, which allow me to unwind and connect with nature.

Anna Uzonyi | Weizmann Institute of Science

 I was born and raised in Budapest, Hungary. I completed my undergraduate education in Molecular Biotechnology at the Technical University of Munich, Germany. During my BSc, I took part in several internships, researching translation initiation factors in Israel, long non-coding RNAs in heart macrophages in Germany, ovarian cancer in Singapore and influenza virus in Oxford. I returned to the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel for my MSc and subsequent PhD, joining the lab of Professor Schraga Schwartz. Here, I combine experimental and computational methods to understand the deposition and function of RNA modifications. I’m starting my postdoctoral training in Europe soon, joining a lab with a focus on single-cell sequencing and organoid development, aiming to research unique molecular mechanisms in non-model species. In my freetime I enjoy traveling, hiking as well as reading (and writing) fantasy and science fiction.

Anna Ponomarenko | Ulm University

I am a PhD student in the A. Catanese/D. Brenner lab at Ulm University Hospital, focusing on the role of NEK1 gene mutations in the pathogenesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). My research combines expertise in cell biology, microscopy, and molecular biology to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative motoneuron diseases. I earned my master’s degree in Biological Chemistry from the Technical University of Berlin. My thesis, conducted at the Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, centered on developing and optimizing clearing and labeling protocols for human brain organoids. I also worked on advancing fluorescence in situ hybridization and smRNA sequencing techniques to improve the characterization of organoid models. With a strong interest in integrating experimental and computational approaches, I have experience in large-scale imaging data analysis, as well as transcriptomic and proteomic data processing. These skills complement my work to elucidate complex biological processes. By combining advanced experimental methods with computational tools, I aim to contribute to the understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Anna Delgado Tejedor | CRG

I’m a Bioinformatician at the Bioinformatics Unit at CRG. Before that, I did my PhD at Eva Novoa’s lab where I focused on developing computational methods to detect RNA modifications using long-read sequencing (ONT) and then apply those to decipher their role in several biological contexts (antibiotic resistance, viral biology and embryonic development). After the PhD I started this new role in which I support the core technology platform, including the Genomics unit, and research groups at CRG and external institutions. One of the projects is based on developing new methods for single-cell transcriptomics scalable to millions of cells. Outside the lab, I’m a basketball player and a hiking enthusiast!

Camiel Corten | VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology

Hi, my name is Camiel. I currently work in Belgium where I’m also originally from. I am employed in the laboratory of Molecular Bacteriology as a PhD student. This lab is part of the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology located in Belgium. Our lab is primarily involved in large-scale cohort studies elucidating the variation of the human gut microbiome. These cohort studies include the Human Microbiome project (as the only European collaborator) and the Flemish Gut Fora Project. Our lab is therefore very dual where we have both a broad team of biostatisticians and people working in the wet lab isolating bacterial communities from fecal samples. My project, however, is more methodological than most projects in the lab, namely I work on functional heterogeneity in bacteria and bacterial scRNA-seq platforms that can captivate this increased layer of complexity. Therefore in my project, I want to bring to the attention that even within isogenic bacterial populations, there is an incredible variety of functions that individual cells can have. Besides my scientific interest in bacteria and fecal samples, I adore trail running through nature, maintaining my indoor aquarium, and exploring the open skies (virtually) through aviation simulators.

Christina Kim | Wellcome Sanger Institute (VenTo Lab)

Hello! My name is Christina, and I have recently started as an Advanced Research Assistant in the VenTo Lab. My research leverages cutting-edge tissue engineering and bioinformatics tools to develop a novel in vitro model of human early placentation. Specifically, I am establishing placental organoid cultures in poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based synthetic matrices, which provide autonomy over both biochemical (ECM molecules present) and biophysical (stiffness) properties. I design and evaluate several matrix candidates in terms of their ability to support organoid maintenance and differentiation via microscopy, flow cytometry, and ELISA. I will profile the most promising platforms using single-cell multiomics and, using what I have learned from this course, benchmark my findings against single-cell atlases of human early pregnancy to inform future iterations of our model. I grew up and finished my undergraduate studies in the U.S., and I became passionate about bridging critical knowledge gaps in reproductive science research to improve women’s health outcomes. I am particularly fascinated by placental biology and have broader interests in epigenetics and biochemistry. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, watching The Great British Bake-Off, and dabbling in UI/UX design!

Clara Tejido | Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ)

My name is Clara Tejido, and I’m originally from Santander, Spain. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Health Biology from the University of Alcalá de Henares, a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences from KU Leuven, and a Master’s in Bioinformatics from the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in Michael Platten’s lab at DKFZ (Heidelberg), where my research focuses on identifying targets to enhance T-cell immunotherapies for Glioblastoma. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies and bouldering.

Daniela Ahuatzin Gallardo | Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics

Daniela (Dani) is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Fellow from Mexico, working at the Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics in Barcelona, Spain. She is part of the Computational and Synthetic Biology (Yang) lab, where she focuses on developing bioinformatic and molecular tools to improve genetic engineering in microalgae. Dani earned her Master’s degree from the University of Southampton and conducted her Master’s thesis in the Plant Metabolism (Smith) lab at the University of Cambridge. Before that, she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Biology at the Universidad de las Américas Puebla in Mexico, including a research placement in Molecular Biology at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands.

Elizabeth Jones | KU Leuven

Dr. Elizabeth Jones’ expertise lies in the study of vascular remodelling and vascular adaptation. She began her career as an engineer studying embryonic blood fluid dynamics, leading to an interest in the biological process of mechanotransduction. She has used engineering approaches to cardiovascular physiology, such as one on the rheology of embryonic blood and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) approaches to analysing flow in time lapses. Her largest body of work, however, focuses gene regulation by flow in early vascular development. In this vein, she has published on the role of mechanotransduction in the development of arterial-venous identity. Though her career started off in mechanotransduction, she now focuses on microvascular maladaptation in disease as well. More specifically, she works extensively on microvascular involvement in the development of diastolic heart failure and has begun investigated microvascular dysfunction in cognitive impairment. In both these diseases, she is studying how metabolic comorbidities affect microvascular function and rarefaction. The overall goal of her research is to understand how angiogenesis, pruning, and vessel enlargement are intertwined in order to adapt to the changes needs of a tissue, and how this process goes wrong in disease conditions.

Emiliano Marasco | Bambino Gesù Children Hospital

Emiliano Marasco is a physician-scientist interested in B cell biology, autoantibodies and autoimmune diseases. His research focuses on the role of B cells in the pathophysiology of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). After graduating in Medical Biotechnology from the University of Milan, he trained in B cell and autoreactivity with Prof. Betty Diamond at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research. Next, he obtained a medical degree from the University of Rome “Tor Vergata” and expanded his work researching on the role of B cells in immunodeficiencies with Prof. Rita Carsetti. He, then, completed a residency in Rheumatology at University Hospital of Pavia. Emiliano is now a physician-scientist at the Rheumatology Department of Bambino Gesù Children hospital in Rome, juggling his research interests with clinical activities. His research focuses on B cell activation and tolerance mechanisms in autoimmune diseases. When he is not running experiments, analyzing data (with rock music playing in his headphones) or seeing patients, Emiliano likes cooking and sharing meals with friends, watching movies, volleyball and hiking.

Estefania Mancini | Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute

I am a Bioinformatics Scientist with over 15 years of experience specializing in Big Data and High-Performance Computing for genomic research. My work centers on designing and implementing robust bioinformatics pipelines for genomics, focusing on healthcare applications. Deeply committed to advancing gender equity in STEM, I actively participate in initiatives supporting Women in STEM and promoting education, Open Science and Open Source projects. My energetic, adaptable, and inventive approach enables me to foster collaborations across diverse disciplines.

Fani Memi | Wellcome Sanger Institute

Born and raised in Greece, I fell in love with Developmental Biology during my undergrad studies in Molecular Biology and Genetics, which led me to do my PhD in brain development at the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at UCL. Following a couple of postdocs in the US and Cambridge, I took up a position as a Senior Staff Scientist at the Sanger Institute, applying single cell and spatial genomics technologies (mainly Visium and Xenium) at large scale to generate atlases of brain tumours as well as developing human brains. I also test, optimise and implement upcoming spatial genomics technologies (e.g Curio). My scientific interests also include evolution and functional genomics/gene regulation. Outside work, I enjoy reading, going to classical music concerts and theatre and engaging with my college, Peterhouse, where I am a Research Associate since 2020.

Gabrielle Litovskich | University College Dublin

I am a PhD student at University College Dublin, Ireland, focusing on the genomic and epigenomic underpinnings of CHD2 haploinsufficiency, which leads to early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) in young children. This devastating disorder currently lacks effective treatments, and its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. My research aims to elucidate the genomic landscape and dysregulation observed in patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). By leveraging cutting-edge techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), single-cell ATAC sequencing (scATAC-seq), and other chromatin profiling approaches, I seek to uncover the molecular basis of CHD2-DEE and its impact on neuronal networks, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of this condition and informing potential therapeutic strategies.

Jana Raman | KU Leuven

I graduated as an analytical and fascinated bio-scientist with a focus on the molecular biology of both plant and animal model organisms. During my bachelor’s studies at Ghent University, I contributed to an EU-funded project investigating molecular aging in C. elegans. For my master’s thesis, I transitioned to KU Leuven, where I delved into cardiovascular research for the first time. My work focused on comparing mouse models of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) and examining the molecular drivers of vascular dysfunction in disease progression. Building on the findings from my master’s research, I secured personal funding to pursue a PhD fellowship exploring the sterile immunological processes underlying HFpEF. My work has involved developing a novel preclinical animal model and investigating how macrophage subpopulations-and their imbalances-contribute to HFpEF pathophysiology. I have particularly enjoyed the bioinformatics aspects of my research and am committed to advancing data-driven biology to accelerate innovations in the life sciences. Beyond my academic pursuits, I am highly motivated to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and take on responsible initiatives that drive meaningful change.

Jifeng Liu | Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG)

Jifeng Liu, Ph.D. is a postdoctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics in Dresden, Germany. He earned his Ph.D. from the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine in 2021. Dr. Liu’s research expertise lies in developmental biology, with a particular emphasis on employing organoid and organ-on-chip models to investigate how genetic factors and microenvironmental cues regulate cellular behavior, organ development, and disease mechanisms. Dr. Liu has significantly contributed to the field, with research published in prominent journals such as Nature Communications, and Stem Cell Research & Therapy. His ongoing projects include developing structurally and functionally refined stem cell-derived islet models and elucidating the role of GLIS3 in pancreas development and diabetes. Dr. Liu is skilled in advanced molecular and cellular techniques, including CRISPR and TALEN gene editing, 3D cell culture systems, and microfluidic device fabrication. He is an active member of international organizations such as ISSCR and the German Stem Cell Network, regularly presenting his work at leading scientific conferences worldwide.

Joao Paulo Macena Muniz Vieira | Universität zu Köln

I am currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Cologne, specializing in evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo), focusing on early dorsal-ventral axis formation in insects. My work investigates why the molecular pathway dictating ventral fate in crickets closely resembles that of flies despite their evolutionary distance-crickets are hemimetabolous, flies are holometabolous. This is striking, given that key genes like Sog are absent in crickets but present in closer relatives such as Rhodnius prolixus. These similarities challenge assumptions about the conservation and divergence of developmental mechanisms. Beyond research, I am interested in interdisciplinary dialogues connecting science and society. I also explore productivity strategies, fueled by my experience managing ADHD, and advocate for mental health in academic environments. Outside the lab, I find balance through cooking and engaging with compelling narratives. I am drawn to the storytelling in TV series like Mr. Robot and The X-Files, which help me unwind and inspire fresh perspectives in my work.

Julia Kraxner | Max Delbrück Center

I am a biophysicist currently working as a postdoc in Holger Gerhardt’s group in Berlin on integrative vascular biology. During my studies in Erlangen, Germany, I focused on the interdisciplinary field between biology, physics and mathematics. I have always been passionate about working at the interface between different fields, which has led me to my current position combining physics, biology and medical research. In general, I am a very curious person and love to learn new things, both at work and in my free time, where I enjoy trying out new hobbies.

Katariina Johanna Saretok | Tallinn University of Technology

I completed my undergraduate degree in Applied Chemistry and Gene Technology at Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia. During my studies, I joined the Reproductive Biology research group, where I explored methods for isolating extracellular vesicles (EVs) from human follicular fluid. This led me to pursue my graduate studies in the same lab, focusing on the role of follicular fluid-derived EVs within the ovarian follicle. Our research group specializes in analysing hormones and investigating toxic environmental chemicals in follicular fluid, as well as conducting RNA sequencing – all of which are integral to my current research. My work aims to uncover the intricate mechanisms through which EVs mediate cellular communication, particularly in reproductive biology, with the goal of contributing to advancements in fertility treatments and reproductive health. I am also deeply interested in bioinformatics because it provides indispensable tools for analysing complex biological data in unprecedented ways. With this rapidly advancing field, it is thrilling to imagine the possibilities that the coming years might bring. Outside of academia, I find joy in dancing, reading science books, and exploring the tranquil forests of Southern Estonia during the summer.

Lars Harms | Alfred-Wegener-Institute

I am a biologist by training with a strong background in the molecular biology and ecophysiology of marine organisms, acquired through my academic studies. My research has primarily focused on two key areas. Firstly, I have engaged in projects centered on transcriptome profiling to enhance our understanding of the functional biology and ecophysiology of marine organisms. This work began during my doctoral thesis at the Alfred Wegener Institute in Bremerhaven, Germany, where I investigated the impacts of temperature and ocean acidification on marine crustaceans. Following my doctoral studies, I joined the Data Science group at the Alfred Wegener Institute, where I continued to expand my research in this area. Over the years, I have contributed to various projects examining the effects of climate change on a diverse array of marine organisms, ranging from protists to higher taxa. Secondly, I have recently ventured into the study of ancient DNA extracted from marine sediment cores. The sediment contains preserved and fragmented DNA, which, depending on its depth and taxonomic classification, offers valuable insights into historical biodiversity. This research provides critical information about past ecosystems, enabling us to better predict future ecosystem changes.

Laudy Cherry | icbp

My name is Laudy Cherry, a molecular geneticist and forensic expert currently working as a scientific researcher at the Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology. My research focuses on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapies for myocardial infarction, using advanced techniques such as single-cell sequencing, bulk RNA sequencing, and spatial transcriptomics. I am involved in both laboratory experiments and bioinformatics analysis to uncover molecular mechanisms behind these innovative treatments. Previously, I spent over 12 years in forensic genetics with the Lebanese Internal Security Forces, handling a broad spectrum of forensic cases. My responsibilities included disaster victim identification (DVI), complex sibling cases, and criminal investigations. I worked with compromised biological samples, ensuring accurate DNA analysis and identification under challenging conditions. I also used specialized software and performed advanced statistical analyses to interpret data in DVI and kinship cases. This experience deepened my expertise in handling metadata and complex datasets, skills that continue to inform my current research. With a PhD in molecular genetics and a deep curiosity for science, I aim to bring a strong foundation in scientific knowledge and practical expertise to my work. My passion lies in applying science to solve real-world challenges and drive meaningful advancements..

Maher Alsaif | University of Nottingham

I’m a first-year PhD student at the University of Nottingham. My project simply focuses on brain tumors and the current treatment limitations. The course will be beneficial for me to find the best optimal treatment for that kind of cancer.

Marc Carrillo Pérez | Univeristy of Helsinki, Helsinki Institute of Life Science

Marc Carrillo Pérez was born in Barcelona in 2001. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Barcelona (UB, 2019-2023) and he is now pursuing a Master’s in Genetics and Molecular Biosciences at the University of Helsinki, Finland (2023-2025). Most of his background focuses on exploring the disease mechanisms of inherited retinal disorders, and the development of gene therapy approaches. However, his current job in the Kilpinen group (https://kilpinenlab.org/) focuses on leveraging CRIPSR/Cas technologies to engineer variants associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in hiPSC’s genomes. Genetically modified hiPSC’s will undergo neuronal differentiation protocols, so that the derived neuron-like heterogeneous population can be analysed through scRNA-Seq to pinpoint disruptions of developmental trajectories, among other phenotypes. Therefore, most of Marc’s expertise resides in the wet lab-side of research, and by taking this course he expects to set a strong foundation to dive deeper into the computational world – that way, videogames are not the only computational tool he enjoys and knows how to use… X) Marc is very intrigued and fascinated by the complexity of the human brain, and believes that his current work can shed valuable insights on the transcriptional complexity of hiPSC-derived neuronal systems.

Margus Veanes | Uppsala University

My name is Margus Veanes and I am currently (as of December 2024) a first year PhD student at Uppsala University working in a colorectal cancer focused research group headed by our principal investigator Tobias Sjöblom. I received my bachelors degree in cellular molecular and developmental biology from the University of Washington in 2016 and received my masters degree in bioinformatics from Uppsala University in 2021. I have a passion for exploring the microenvironment which is largely understudied and is relatively poorly characterized. I have found a passion for working with single cell transcriptomic data as it provides a means by which to parse biological information spaces for information which may either confirm or contradict established biological paradigms. My current research efforts are primarily focused on applying novel methodologies within single cell datasets to generate information specific to signatures within tumor associated vasculature. Recent studies have indicated that in-silico based single cell data provides resolutions which have a remarkable ability to recapitulate features of anatomical topography seen in-vivo.

Marta Chroscik | Newcastle University

Marta is a Research Assistant based at Newcastle University, primarily involved in the wet lab aspects of various projects directed towards skin health and disease. Her work focuses on single-cell and spatial transcriptomics methods. Recently, she began a staff PhD under the supervision of Dr. Emily Stephenson as her primary advisor. In this project, she will be looking into mast cells in Cutaneous Mastocytosis using single-cell transcriptomics to better understand this rare disease. Marta holds a BSc Honours in Biomedical Science from Northumbria University and an MRes in Immunobiology from Newcastle University. In her free time, Marta enjoys running, playing and watching tennis, and experimenting with new baking recipes.

Michela Francesconi | IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori of Milan

I am a dedicated and passionate researcher with a strong background in biology and bioinformatics. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Milano-Bicocca and a Master’s degree in Bioinformatics for computational genomics, from a joint program between Politecnico di Milano and the University of Milan. My academic journey has equipped me with a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of biological sciences and computational analysis. I spent eight months at the Hubrecht Institute in the Netherlands, conducting ChIC-seq and bulk RNA-seq analyses as part of my master’s thesis. This internship allowed me to work with a diverse group of researchers and provided significant personal and professional growth. My professional experience includes a fellowship at Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori in Milan, in the research section “Microenvironment and Biomarkers in Solid Tumors,” where I specialized in RNA-Seq analysis for breast cancer. During this fellowship, I conducted in-depth analyses, including metabolism analysis, differentially expressed gene analysis, gene ontology, and enrichment pathway analysis. Additionally, I expanded my expertise to include microbiome analysis and the development of mathematical models to enhance data interpretation and understanding.

Mohamad Eldaw | Qatar biomedical Research Institute

A driven and accomplished Research Associate with 13 years of experience, I possess a comprehensive background in laboratory management and operations, particularly in Structural Biology. Throughout my career, I have consistently strived to optimize laboratory efficiency and productivity, demonstrating a solid commitment to continuous professional growth.

Phoolwanti Rani | University of California, San Diego

I am a postdoctoral fellow in the laboratory of Elizabeth Villa at the University of California, San Diego. I completed my Bachelor of Science in Bioinformatics and Master of Science in Biochemistry at Kurukshetra University, India. Driven by a passion for science, I joined the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, where I investigated the role of Mycobacterial DNA topoisomerase I in RNA metabolism and chromosome segregation. In my current research, I study nucleus-forming jumbo phages, focusing on elucidating the functions of various genes using CRISPR-Cas-mediated knockdowns and transcriptomics. Outside the lab, I enjoy photography, hiking, cooking, music, and dancing.

Rijndert Ariese | Prinsess Maxima Center for pediatric oncology

My name is Rijndert, and I am 35 years old at the time of writing. I currently live and work in Utrecht, the Netherlands. I am a technician in the Rios group, embedded in the Princess Maxima Center for pediatric oncology. Here, we develop hESC-derived brain organoid models to study Diffuse Midline Glioma (DMG), a universally lethal and infiltrative brain tumor. My work involves, among others, performing and analyzing multiple sequencing experiments to understand the brain organoid and the modelled tumor better. In 2025, I will begin my PhD, continuing the projects I have been deeply involved in. My research will focus on the complex behavioral dynamics and interactions of DMG tumor cells within their microenvironment. Using advanced confocal live imaging, CRISPR screens, and single-cell RNA sequencing, I aim to identify and target the most critical interactions driving the invasive nature of DMG. At home, I find joy in experimenting in my “kitchen lab,” cooking 7 courses for my friends. Outdoors, I thrive in the mountains, enjoying activities such as hiking, climbing, and skiing, but I also have a deep appreciation for the sea.

Samuel Bharti | University of Alabama at Birmingham

I am a PhD student in the Biomedical Engineering program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). My research focuses on Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and its association with breast cancer. I plan to use whole exome sequencing (WES) and single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) data from NF1-deficient breast cancer rat models to explore the molecular mechanisms involved and identify potential therapeutic targets. I am passionate about translating scientific discoveries into real-world applications and have recently completed a certificate program in the Translation of Biomedical Innovations to Clinical Practice. Before starting my PhD, I served as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for a FinTech startup. This experience strengthened my technical and leadership skills and focused my interest on practical applications. I am also a certified instructor with The Carpentries and regularly teach data science workshops at my university. Additionally, I serve as the president of the Informatics Club at UAB, where I support the professional and academic growth of my peers. In my free time, I enjoy exploring nature and trying diverse cuisines. With my background in academia and industry, I aim to bridge the gap between computational research and clinical practice to improve patient outcomes and advance healthcare.

Sergio Forcelloni | Pediatric Hospital “Bambino Gesù”

I received my training in bioinformatics and computational biology at the Physics Department of the University of Rome “La Sapienza” and the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry in Munich, Germany. As a bioinformatician, I have extensive expertise in analyzing next-generation sequencing data, including RNA-seq, Ribo-seq, tRNA-seq, and ChIP-seq. Currently, at the Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, my research focuses on utilizing scRNA-seq and CITE-seq data to investigate the heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment and its impact on specific immune cell subsets.

Stefan Pinkernell | Alfred Wegener Institut

As a bioinformatician with a background in ecological modeling, I focus on software development and data analysis. My work involves using programming languages like Java, R, and Python to create solutions that simplify data handling and help make sense of complex biological information. I am particularly interested in how Data Science and Machine Learning can be applied to large datasets, allowing for the discovery of patterns and insights that support scientific research. Currently, I am involved in developing a Sample Management System to improve the organization and accessibility of biological data. This system is designed to make it easier for researchers to manage their samples and focus on their scientific work. I enjoy working on projects that help streamline workflows and facilitate data-driven discoveries. In the future, I plan to focus more on bioinformatic analyses, particularly within projects related to single-cell omics, where I aim to contribute to advancing our understanding of cellular diversity and complex biological systems.

Theresa Auer | Technical University of Munich

My name is Theresa, and I am a first-year PhD student at the Technical University of Munich (TUM). I work in the lab of Translational Nutritional Medicine under the supervision of Prof. Alexander Bartelt, where we study metabolic adaptation, a fundamental process through which cells and organisms respond to environmental challenges. My research focuses on how Nfe2l1, a key regulator of proteasomal activity, influences muscle formation by controlling protein recycling in muscle precursor cells. By utilizing mouse models with targeted Nfe2l1 deletion in myoblasts, I aim to uncover its contributions to maintaining muscle mass and driving cellular remodeling. I am originally from Germany and hold a bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science from the University of Hohenheim. During my master’s studies in Nutrition and Biomedicine at the Technical University of Munich, I developed a strong interest in the molecular mechanisms that govern metabolic health and disease. In my free time, I enjoy sports such as running and climbing, as well as spending time in nature hiking in the Bavarian Alps south of Munich.