My postdoc period involved working on many projects simultaneously including both, fundamental and translational research. Project management ranged from idea resource through experimental design, execution and analysis to presentation and writing reports/grant applications.The main goal of the research was identification of novel functional stem cell markers which can be used for their prospective isolation and furthermore facilitate the development of effective stem cell treatments. Additionally, I investigated the functional changes of HSCs upon in vitro culture, ageing and malignant transformation which is of significant clinical relevance. Experimental designs employed various in vitro assays using human and mouse primary cells and cell lines. Moreover, I performed many in vivo experiments with different mouse models. Molecular biology techniques, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, etc. were part of the routine work. As a part of Molecular Medicine and Gene Therapy department, I was always up to date with the novelty in the field organized through journal clubs and regular daily discussions with the colleagues. Atmosphere where networking and collaboration within and outside the working environment were encouraged and nurtured is documented through our publications.

During my PhD I worked with epigenetic regulators of gene transcription where I employed plethora of molecular biology techniques to design and construct vectors for gene manipulation, including virus production, transduction, etc. Moreover, I performed functional validation in both, in vitro (cell culture assays) and in vivo settings (bone marrow transplantation followed by flow cytometry readout).Furthermore, I gained knowledge about project management, importance of networking, work presentation and scientific writing.

Master study involved a single project with the focus on Genotoxicology. During this period, I tremendously expanded my theoretical knowledge together with the laboratory and microscopy skills. I worked in the joyful surrounding with two supervisors and many young researchers who happily shared their experiences within the field.The goal was to determine the potential antigenotoxic properties of fungi extracts using in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity tests. These properties can potentially be used to buffer up genotoxic side effects of various chemical agents used in e.g., pharmaceutical industry.