DI Agnes Forsthuber, PhD
Dermatologie
Basic Science, Dermatology and Venereology, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology
Position: Postdoc
Research focus: Diversity and functions of skin fibroblasts in development, homeostasis, and diseases such as skin cancer, fibrosis, and calcinosis using human healthy and diseased tissue as well as different mouse models.
Group size: 5
Contact: agnes.forsthuber@meduniwien.ac.at
What I offer
I completed my PhD at the Medical University of Vienna and continued my academic career there as a postdoctoral researcher. Having experienced both the PhD and postdoctoral stages at Medical University of Vienna, I am familiar with the challenges of academic life from the perspective of both a PhD student and a postdoc. As the mother of a 4 year-old son, I also have firsthand experience navigating the balance between family responsibilities and the demands of a scientific career.
I offer a supportive and confidential space for PhD students to discuss the many aspects of doctoral training—from scientific challenges and project development to career planning, managing the balance between family and lab, and maintaining well-being throughout the PhD journey. My goal is to help mentees develop their own strengths, gain perspective on opportunities and obstacles, and build confidence as independent researchers.
I offer also the topic "Studying with a child".
What I expect from the students
A successful mentoring relationship is built on mutual trust, respectful communication, and a genuine interest in personal and professional development. I encourage students to bring their questions, ideas, and challenges openly to our discussions.
Time constraints for meetings
We will have at least three meetings per semester, but I am flexible and also offer more depending on the needs and requests of the mentoring group.
Meetings will be held in the Anna Spiegel building I and will take 60-90 min. One meeting will be outside the university, where we will go for a drink/dinner.
The first meeting will be held in November after the registration phase has ended.
What else I would like to say
A PhD is more than a research project—it is a unique period of growth, discovery, and learning. While there is no single formula for success, having a supportive network and opportunities for reflection can make a meaningful difference.