Kristyna Fediv, a first-year Master’s student enrolled in the Biochemistry study programme, is undertaking a research internship in Switzerland at École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). EPFL is one of the leading research-intensive universities in Europe and worldwide, consistently ranked among the top institutions internationally and recognised as a major centre of excellence in Switzerland, particularly in the field of life sciences through its School of Life Sciences.
Over the course of the coming year, Kristyna will conduct her research in the Cell Dynamics and Fragmentation Laboratory, led by Dr Juan Manuel García-Arcos. The laboratory’s research focuses on the study of cell dynamics and fragmentation processes, with particular emphasis on the formation of membrane protrusions known as blebs. These structures arise from local alterations in the cytoskeleton and plasma membrane and play a crucial role in cell migration, cell division, and a range of pathological processes, including cancer.
The laboratory operates within the UPGON scientific community and works in close collaboration with the research group of Professor Pierre Gönczy, which serves as the hosting laboratory. This collaboration provides access to advanced research infrastructure, scientific mentorship, and integration of the project into the broader research environment at EPFL.
Research internships at leading international institutions enable students to engage in cutting-edge scientific research, acquire advanced skills in state-of-the-art microscopy and image analysis, and foster international scientific collaboration. Such experiences contribute significantly to the professional development of young researchers and support the integration of national scientific communities into the global research landscape.