Detail

What I offer

Starting a PhD is a huge step. I moved from Poland to join an international PhD program, and I will now expand my academic horizons through a research stay abroad. In my daily work, I focus on viral infections as important trigger factors for chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD. My role involves not only conducting experiments but also analysing complex data and collaborating with international teams. Outside of my core research, I am deeply interested in science communication and supporting early-career scientists. Because of my own journey, I know exactly how difficult it can be to adapt to a new country and a new academic culture.

I would be happy to support you in planning your first year, setting realistic goals, and boosting your confidence if you are feeling unsure. A key focus of my mentoring is science communication. I want to share my practical skills with you: I will show you how to present your data clearly, design impactful figures and engaging conference posters, and deliver presentations with confidence. We can also discuss international mobility. Since I will be working abroad myself, I can share my experiences and help you decide whether and when a stay abroad makes sense for you. Towards the end of my PhD, I became a mother myself and therefore I can also offer honest advice on balancing family life and research. In my free time, I really enjoy playing tennis to stay active and clear my head.

We can also collaborate in a very practical way. Depending on the schedule, we can arrange short-term shadowing sessions where you can accompany me during my experiments and see how different methods work. Please note that my daily research work does not involve direct patient contact. 

What I expect from the students

I do not expect you to know everything, because the start of a PhD is a learning process. However, for a successful mentoring relationship, I care about three main things:

·        Honest communication: Please be open with me about your challenges, doubts, and goals. This should be a safe space.

·        Proactivity: Since you are the major driver of your PhD, I expect you to take initiative and actively ask for support when you need it.

·        Reliability: I value your time, and I ask you to respect mine by showing up to our agreed meetings or letting me know in advance if you need to reschedule.

Time constraints for meetings

We will determine the meeting schedule together as a group. Usually, getting together once a month has proven effective for maintaining continuous exchange, however, during periods of high workload or stress, we can meet more frequently. Since I will be abroad during the first half of the year, our meetings will take place in person at intervals of 4–5 weeks (1.5 hours) and, if necessary, also online via video call. Once I return, we will meet exclusively in person. As a mother and researcher, I am flexible with my time, provided we coordinate in advance should a meeting need to be rescheduled.

What else I would like to say

The most important thing is that you are not alone on this journey. A PhD is hard work, but it should also be an exciting time in your life. It is absolutely okay to feel overwhelmed at times. I want to support you, listen to you, and help you grow both as a researcher and as a person.