Elections 2024

Hello! My name is Alexia Achilles, and I’m a doctoral student in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at the University of Würzburg, where I study the mRNA decapping machinery in Trypanosoma brucei. In Brazil, I earned my Master’s in Biophysics, focusing on Electron Microscopy to investigate the ultrastructure of cells.

I am applying to the Doctoral Researchers Council because I believe in creating a supportive, inclusive, and well-connected community for all doctoral researchers, and I want to contribute to fostering a collaborative and enriching academic environment.

Hi, I’m Johanna. I’m originally from Munich and started my academic journey studying physics in Heidelberg before transferring to medical school in Würzburg, where I’m now in my fifth year. After completing a research stay at the Yale Center for Systems and Engineering Immunology, I recently began my medical doctoral thesis, supported by the GSLS MD Excellence Program. My current research focuses on computational neuroscience, exploring the relationship between hippocampal connectivity, inflammation, and mental well-being.

I’m passionate about fostering interdisciplinary exchange, which is why I greatly appreciate the GSLS’s inclusive approach that enables engagement in a collaborative environment across disciplines. I’m excited about the opportunity to join the DRC and help build a strong, interconnected network for all students passionate about life sciences. With my background in both physics and medicine, I bring a unique perspective and am confident that I can contribute valuable insights to the council and the broader GSLS community.

I am Srivalli Kolla, a PhD candidate at the Institute of Systems Immunology. My research focuses on understanding the interactions within cardiac cellular collectives, specifically how cardiac cells communicate and function together. I aim to integrate data from multiple sources to curate a comprehensive view of cardiac biology.

In addition to my academic pursuits and with a little prior experience in the industry, I am passionate about networking, organizational, and managerial activities, which contribute to my personal and professional growth. I love engaging in these activities and would be excited to be part of the DRC, where I can further develop these skills.

I am Devi Bala Murugan, PhD scholar in the group of Prof. Dr. Stefen Gaubatz. Our research is centred on the transcriptional regulation of the cell genes. My thesis aim is to identify the mechanism through which B-Myb and MuvB regulates cancer-relevant cell cycle genes.

I am eager to apply for membership in the DRC because I believe in representing the diverse interests of doctoral candidates and contributing to a supportive academic community. I am particularly interested in helping organize social events and improving communication between the students and the graduate school. Through this role, I hope to build my network, learn more about academic structures, and actively support the needs of my fellow MD/PhD candidates.

Hello, Omkar Rajendra Valanju here, PhD scholar in the group of Dr. Hans Michael Maric at RVZ. Our research focuses on mapping and modulating protein interactions, specifically I am defining the molecular requirements for interaction with a scaffolding protein and identifying new ligand partners. I am deeply intrigued by new techniques and developments in healthcare and technology. I remain positive about the potential for exciting research.

Having actively participated in GSLS events, I made friends, collaborations, exchanged views with fellow researchers. I now seek opportunity to contribute further by coordinating and being the voice of peers.

My name is Pia Wittmann, and I am in my first year of a PhD in Biomedicine after completing my Bachelor’s and Master’s in Würzburg. I am working in Prof. Beilhack’s group at the Department of Medicine II, focusing on testing a new immunotherapy for tumors.

I am eager to join the DRC after gaining experience as chair of the Biomedicine Student Council from 2020 to 2023, where I worked to revive its activities after COVID-19. This role also helped me learn about university politics and develop a passion for connecting with students at different stages of their studies.