Detail

What I offer

As a postdoctoral researcher in translational neuro-oncology, I strive to provide a supportive, approachable, and encouraging mentoring environment where curiosity is welcomed and open communication is valued. I understand that pursuing a PhD is not only about producing good science—it is also about personal growth, overcoming challenges and finding your own path in academia.

I can support students with project planning, experimental design, troubleshooting, data interpretation, and scientific thinking. My research focuses on brain tumors, patient-derived models, molecular biology, cell culture, immunofluorescence, microscopy, and translational cancer research. Having helped establish a research laboratory and a brain tumor biobank, I am also happy to share practical advice on laboratory organization, project management and navigating day-to-day research.

Beyond scientific topics, I would like to be an independent point of contact outside the PhD committee - a mentor students can turn to for honest conversations about work-life balance, motivation, challenges in academia, career decisions and maintaining well-being throughout their PhD journey. Sometimes it simply helps to talk to someone who has recently been in a similar position. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where students feel comfortable asking questions, discussing concerns, celebrating successes and building confidence as independent researchers.

What I expect from the students

I see mentoring as a two-way relationship built on trust, openness and mutual respect. I encourage students to be curious, ask questions, and actively engage in discussions. There are no "wrong" questions and I hope to create an environment where students feel comfortable sharing both their successes and the challenges they encounter during their PhD.

I appreciate honesty, a willingness to reflect and an openness to feedback. Whether we discuss scientific projects, career development or personal challenges related to academic life, I value respectful communication and confidentiality. My goal is not to provide all the answers, but to support students in developing their own ideas, confidence and independence as researchers.

Time constraints for meetings

I am available for mentoring meetings approximately once a week for 1,5h depending on the student's needs and our schedules. Meetings can be arranged Monday through Friday and may take place in person.

In addition to our regular meetings, I would like to organize at least one informal get-together each semester. I believe that conversations outside the usual academic setting can help build trust and make it easier to discuss both scientific and personal challenges. Depending on the season, this could be something simple such as a coffee, an autumn walk or a summer picnic.

What else I would like to say

Having completed the Clinical Neurosciences PhD program at the Medical University of Vienna in 2024, I still vividly remember the opportunities and challenges that come with pursuing a PhD. As many of these experiences are still fresh, I hope to provide practical advice and a perspective that is both relatable and up to date.

In addition to my research, I am actively involved in teaching and mentoring. I organize journal clubs within the PhD program Malignant Diseases and contribute to teaching in Block 8 as well as the SSM1 and SSM2 courses. I have also supervised Bachelor's and Diploma students from different academic backgrounds, which has given me experience in adapting my mentoring approach to individual needs, expectations and career goals.

I look forward to meeting motivated students, learning about their research interests and supporting them throughout their PhD journey. I hope to create a mentoring relationship that is open, constructive and enjoyable for all of us.