Stepping Into Infection Biology with FAST

Today I had the privilege of pitching our lab’s next big step: extending the FAST platform—our flexible screening system for yeast—into the exciting and challenging world of infection biology.

This is not just about technology; it’s about building bridges. The FAST platform has already transformed how we approach large-scale screening in yeast, and now we want to explore how similar principles can accelerate discoveries in microbial pathogens. The idea is simple but powerful: collaboration. We believe that by joining forces with experts in infection biology, we can uncover new insights faster and more effectively.

To capture this vision, I shared an image—a robot reaching out to a bacterium. For me, this image symbolizes curiosity, innovation, and the willingness to step into unfamiliar territory. It’s a reminder that science thrives when we dare to connect disciplines and challenge ourselves.

I feel both humbled and energized by the conversations here. The retreat is a space full of brilliant minds, and tomorrow we will form working groups to tackle future challenges together. I know I am stepping into an area where I am a beginner, but that’s exactly what excites me. Growth happens when we embrace the unknown, and I believe in constantly challenging myself and my team to learn, adapt, and innovate.

None of this would be possible without the incredible people in the Kohler Proteostasis Lab and our close collaborators in the Kohler Mito Lab. Your creativity, persistence, and teamwork are the foundation of everything we do. This journey is ours, and I am proud to take these steps with you.

Here’s to new ideas, new collaborations, and the courage to explore what comes next.

Discussing Ageing and Data Analysis at the IceLab Lunch Pitch

Yesterday, I, along with Mattias Forsell, had the opportunity to present at the first IceLab Lunch Pitch of the season. We discussed various aspects of ageing, from the microscopic (me) to the population level (Mattias). We openly invited collaborators to join us in developing data processing pipelines and conducting large-scale data analysis for our respective projects.

If you’re interested in learning more about our pitches, you can find a summary and watch the pitches on the IceLab website. 

Additionally, there’s a news article available on Umeå University’s webpage. 

Stay tuned for more exciting news!

KBC Days: A Dive into Science and Networking

I'm eager to share my experience at the KBC Days held at Umeå University last week. I had a fantastic time filled with exciting talks, engaging discussions and a lot of new connections. Here's a glimpse into the highlights of the two-day event.

The event kicked off with sessions, where recently recruited faculty members talked about their science. I had the privilege of contributing to the kickoff by sharing insights from my postdoctoral research. As a new PI, getting the opportunity to discuss my science added an extra layer of excitement, especially considering the diverse audience that included students, peers, and even representatives from major funding agencies, including the esteemed Kempe Foundation.

During my talk, we delved deep into the intricate relationship between phenotype and functionality, showcasing the results of my postdoctoral endeavours. It was a moment of pride to stand in front of such a varied audience, knowing that my journey was not just about looking back at past accomplishments but also forward into the exciting possibilities of the future. What made the experience even more special was the opportunity to engage with Alice Kempe during lunch, exchanging thoughts and insights.

The sessions, although quite lengthy, turned out to be incredibly rewarding. The rich scientific discussions fueled the intellectual atmosphere, making every minute worthwhile. A delightful dinner followed, creating a perfect blend of fun and networking.

Day 2 shed light on the impressive work of the Umeå Postdoc Society. Their commitment to balancing professional development and social events for early career researchers was evident, particularly in sessions on science communication and grant writing. As a new PI, the prospect of collaboration with this vibrant community is genuinely exciting.

Reflecting on the KBC Days, I'm grateful for the connections made and the insights gained. The event has fueled my excitement for what lies ahead, and I look forward to translating these experiences into tangible contributions to the academic community.

Stay tuned for more updates and adventures in the world of academia!